Victorian French Limoges Enamel Earrings

Originally antique Victorian collar buttons circa 1870, featuring gorgeous examples of Limoges foiled enamel portraiture work that easily ranks among the best we've ever seen. The buttons themselves are crafted in 18k and we've converted them to earrings with 14k ear wires and Renaissance style knob-studded frames cast in recycled 14k yellow gold. 

The portraits are of two royal Renaissance era court ladies with ornate robes and headdresses, brought to life by careful use of foiling in the colors of their costume, a technique invented in Limoges France.

The detail is exquisite; from the diaphanous quality of their veils to the lacy netting at their necks, it's incredibly well-executed work.

Details: Approximately 3/4" in diameter with a 1" drop including the ear wires. They have weight but are not too heavy for comfortable everyday wear. Not marked for gold content but the buttons acid test to 18k. The frames are patinaed in our own special formula to antique the color of the metal and bring out the subtle details in the portraits.

Condition: In excellent condition. The backs of the buttons are slightly varied colors of gold, which is a product of patina and not visible when worn. We've chosen to leave them largely as found so as not to disturb the enamel in the cleaning process.

History: High quality enamel work demands advanced skill and patience. Enamel powder is essentially ground glass mixed with silica and a small amount of borax or other additives depending on the effect desired. After it's been applied to the metal surface it's fired, which melts the powder to achieve a glassy translucent surface. Opacity can be gained with layering or the addition of certain compounds and a piece might be fired 15-20 times before the artist is satisfied with the results.

Enameling itself has been around since around the 5th century B.C., but the French lay claim to perfecting a painting technique in the 15th century at Limoges that allows for such fine detail as hair and facial features.