Victorian Gold and Silver Sparkling Paste Earrings

Stunning antique earrings set with fiery pastes in imitation of diamonds and topaz or aquamarine. The stones are foil backed for extra sparkle and set into enclosed silver backs with gold screw fittings.

The French jeweller Georges Frédéric Strass invented “Paste" in 1724. True paste is crafted from a special leaded glass that was painstakingly cut and then polished by hand with metal powder until it appeared to shimmer like a diamond. It was an instant success with the chic upper classes of Parisian society and continues to be highly sought after today. Nowadays paste is often used as a generic term to describe costume gemstones.

• Condition: Excellent antique condition.

• Hallmarks/stamps: None.

• Fixing: Nine-carat (375) gold screw backs for pierced or unpierced ears.

• Era: Estimated late Victorian/Edwardian (c.late 1800s-1914).

• Size: Approximately 4 x 1cm.

• Weight: 4.7g.

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. Your purchase will come securely and discreetly packaged in a presentation box.

FREE INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING! Items to UK addresses are sent via Royal Mail Special Delivery or Tracked 48, and overseas items are shipped with a tracked and signed service where available. 🇺🇸 US 10% tariffs are prepaid by TheEarringCurator 😊