Antique Victorian Earrings Mourning Jewelry 18k Gold Carved Agate French (6326)

Antique Victorian Mourning Earrings Long ear pendants. 18k yellow gold and carved banded agate. Made in France circa 1860-1885.

Measurements: Length, not including wires is approximately 2 1/4inches (7cm). Combined weight is 18.7 grams.

Description: Banded agate carved to produce a white stripe running horizontally throughout. Hand-carved agate in 3 sections: upper surmounts connected to the wires are small globes. In the middle are larger globes and swinging at the bottom are a pair of carved, concentric loops attached through an agate bale. A gold band helps to secure to pair of hoops. The agate is black with consistent broad white stripes in each section giving a smart and consistent appearance. The gold loops connecting the sections allow each part to swing and sway independently of the others, as the wearer moves. The great length is extremely elegant and guarranteed to draw the eye of the viewer. Very solid, luxurious quality.

These earrings conformed to the demands of mourning jewelry of the late 19th century. The playful geometric nature and white stripes alleviate the sombre color and hint at the real mindset of the ladies of fashion. These wonderful earrings are no less fashionable and stunning today as they were almost 150 years ago.

Marks: French hallmarks indicating 18k gold.

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