Antique 19th c. Pendant Dangle Earrings

With overall shape and scale accurate for its time, this striking pair of antique earrings makes its own impact on any important occasion. The design of jewelry has often been mandated by both the economics and fashions of its era. Here the elongated pendant form with torpedo shaped drops fits the bill for the upswept hairstyles of the 19th century and its increased length necessitated a reduction in weight. Although displaying a substantial appearance, the use of 18k gold hollow construction enabled increased wearing time with no discomfort.

Suspended from the 18k gold original top hoops (hallmarked with “I” and two additional small marks) are torpedo shaped drops. Rather than being smooth and bulbous, the gold has been pleated and decorated en repoussé. Eye-catching not only in design, the highly polished and faceted surfaces and ornate detail of the embellished patterns catch and reflect all available light.

Measures 3-3/8 inches in length by 5/8 of an inch in width (8.5 cm long by 1.6 cm wide). Very light in weight and easy on the ear with its hollow construction. Hallmarked “JW” and with the head of a horse facing left (mark used after 1830). In very good to excellent condition; a few minor indentions; several slightly larger on orb below top ring of each earring. Belgian in origin and dates to circa 1840 – 1850.