Victorian Floral Pietra Dura Silver Wheel Earrings

These pretty Victorian pietra dura earrings are mounted in sterling silver with applied gold detail to the front in a wheel-shaped pattern.

Pietra dura is the art of creating images from hardstones carefully cut and polished and fitted perfectly together like a jigsaw into a hardstone background. Each piece would take a master craftsman many hours to make and many originated in Italy, often brought back in the 19th century as a souvenir or gift from a young Victorian chap doing "the Grand Tour" of Europe.

• Condition: Overall the earrings are in good antique condition. There are some losses to the tiny stone pieces and when seen under strong magnification one of the dark backgrounds has some cracks, although the stones are firmly set in place. The silver has a lovely aged patina which I have not overpolished.

• Hallmarks/stamps: The earrings are hand engraved on the back - one with "JB 26.6.76" and the other with the initials "AVO".

• Fixing: Sterling silver ear wires, supplied with tiny silicone "keepers" to pop on the back for extra security.

• Era: Victorian, 1870s.

• Size: 3.8cm total drop from the top of the ear wire. The dangling wheels measure 2.2cm across.

• Weight: 9.3g.

PLEASE NOTE! All items are vintage or antique and as such show light general wear appropriate to their age. Bear in mind photos are very magnified and flaws which can be seen in the pictures are often imperceptible to the naked eye in real life. I always do my very best to point out any additional flaws, but please look carefully at all the photos as they are an important part of the listing - and do ask if you have any questions! 

Antique boxes are for display only unless stated otherwise.

FREE INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING! Items to UK addresses are sent via Royal Mail Special Delivery, and overseas items are shipped with a tracked and signed service where available.

EU and Northern Ireland deliveries, please be sure to read the GPSR section on the Delivery & Packaging page.