Georgian Black Dot Paste Button Earrings

Antique paste jewelry holds a special place in the heart of every collector. Although created by the hand of a human being, it has qualities that can rival that of precious gems.

A set of 18th century twin circular paste buttons has been transformed into a sumptuous pair of antique earrings. Floral patterning was quite popular during this time. Flower head clusters such as these, were also used in brooch and ring design. Surrounded with a perimeter of round cut pastes, the central flower incorporates shaped pastes as petals.

All configurations of shapes were characteristic of 18th century pastes whereas later date pastes were most often round. All black dot, each paste has been set into silver. (See our Reference Section under Helpful Terms and Paste for more information). A myriad of refractive rainbow hues emanate from their depths.

Condition: Very good with light wear overall; one small chip to side of one paste. Later date 15k gold wires have been added.

Measurements: ¾ of an inch (1.9 cm) in diameter by more than 7/8 of an inch (2.3 cm) in total length including the ear wire. The pair has a weight of 6.6 grams.

Date: Circa 1790