Ancient Revival: French Granulated Gold Earrings

The ancient Etruscans were highly proficient in the metal working technique of granulation. Laboriously demanding and exceedingly difficult, this style was revived and revered during the Victorian era.

Splendid in scale and sublime in proportion, this is a superb pair of antique earrings in 18k yellow gold. A three-element design, the small half dome surmount is decorated with clusters of three bead granulation. A horseshoe arch forms a canopy over a suspended bulbous teardrop with granulated gold orbs ornamenting the entire surface; the drop concludes with a gold bead.

The color and burnish of the gold is reminiscent of ancient high carat jewelry with its yellow luster and mellowed richness. Although somewhat impressive in size, this gorgeous pair of 19th century earrings is light on the ear with its hollow construction.

Condition: Very good; addition of later 18k gold ear wires; one minute dent to the front of one teardrop below a cluster of grains of gold; a tad bit of patina to the top mounds (which could be polished); otherwise fine.

Hallmarks: French control marks on top “O” fitting of the teardrop.

Measurements: Just shy of 1-1/2 (3.9 cm) inches in total length by 5/16 of an inch (0.8 cm) in width. This pair of antique earrings has a weight of 3.0 grams.

Date & Origin: Circa 1860; French in origin.