Pretty studs with the appearance of high-carat gold, each set with three vivid turquoise (untested) cabochons like tiny blue eggs in a swirling golden nest.
The earrings are believed likely to be made of pinchbeck - pinchbeck is a gold substitute, now collectible in its own right, originally made to a secret formula devised by Christopher Pinchbeck in the early 18th century. It is an alloy of copper and zinc, like brass, but uses much more copper and less zinc than brass. Although pinchbeck can tarnish over time it does not wear in the same way as other materials such as gold plating or rolled gold. You don’t often find pinchbeck items made after about 1840 - as nine-carat gold became legal, enabling people to buy less expensive gold jewellery, and electro-gilding was invented (a kind of gold plate), pinchbeck fell by the wayside.
• Condition: Very good antique condition.
• Fixing: Screw-on butterflies.
• Hallmarks: None.
• Era: Estimated Victorian (c.1837-1901).
• Size: 9mm diameter. The turquoises are approx 2mm.
• Weight: 1.1g.
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.
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