Antique Victorian Earrings Ear Pendants Black Onyx 18k Gold Mourning (6526)

Antique Victorian Napoleon III earrings / ear pendants. 18k yellow gold and onyx. Made in France, 19th century.

Measurements: 1 3/4 inches (4.5cm) long. Weigh 5.8 grams.

Description : Wonderfully elegant and subtle pair of earrings. The tops are like little black pumpkins carved out of onyx, held in gold wire cages and with carved details on the surface. A couple of loops link the drops - long torpedo shapes and allow them to swing and sway as the wearer moves. The drops are hld in gold mounts like the calyx of a flower. Gold with finely engraved, tiny detail. Similar wirework around the onyx to the top section. The combination of black and gold is stunning. There is a wonderful sense of movement and great elegance. Good quality craftmanship where the jeweller has taken the time and trouble with small details, barely visible to the naked eye, but that make these a charming and most wearable pair of earrings, suitable for casual or smart attire by day or by night.

Women during the Victorian era were forced to wear black jewelry when in mourning, but many, especially French ladies, understood that black is an extremely elegant color, so it is difficult to know whether the choice of color was spiritual or to suit fashion and good looks.

Marks: Somewhat worn marks on the wires are French marks for 18k gold.

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