Antique Victorian Earrings Brooch Mourning Set Jewelry Gold Onyx Pearls (6974)

Antique Victorian set jewelry consisting of brooch and matching earrings. Gold, onyx and pearls. Made late 19th century, England.

Measurements: Length of brooch is a little over 1 1/2 inches (4cm). Length of earrings from surmount to bottom is 1 1/8 inches (3cm). Combined weight is 18.2 grams.

Description : Pair of earrings or ear pendants and a brooch made of carved black onyx, very finely set with gold-mounted small pearls. Oval in shape with faceted sides and slightly convex on top to house a radiating star or flower of gold, set with pearls and small golden globule details. Centers are slightly larger pearls. Black, white and gold contrast and play off each other giving a rich and luxurious effect. The brooch with c-clasp and an added safety chain with safety pin. The earrings with small globular surmounts, which might be later additions, gold loops and onyx drops. The gold loops allow the earrings to swing and sway as the wearer moves. While the black, white and gold colors and materials are fittingly sober, understated and suitable as mourning jewelry, the combination of design, contrasting colors and continuous movement draw attention in a very subtle way. Originally worn as mourning jewelry, this jewelry is now sought after for it's elegance and fine workmanship. Classically beautiful, this set can be worn by anyone with any outfit.

Marks and Metal: No marks found. We acid tested the c-clasp (the only place we could access) of the brooch and it stays for 14k. The safety pin also stays for 14k.

Condition: Good with minor wear commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.