Victorian Carved Jet Torpedo Drop Earrings
$1,200.00
Elegantly gothic Victorian earrings, circa 1850-60, featuring long carved jet torpedo drops hung from 14k yellow gold rococo style tops; the tops can be worn alone for a more demure effect, a detachable design known as "day into night".
Jet is essentially a type of fossilized wood, like coal, and has been used in jewelry since the Neolithic period; it became especially popular in the 19th century for mourning jewelry due to it's inky color, light weight and the ease with which it can be carved.
Details: Measuring approximately 3" long from top of the ear wire curve to the bottom of the drop, approximately 3.3 grams total weight for each earring. The wires open back to front, to be inserted through the back of the lobe and latched closed at the top. Not marked for metal content but acid tested to at least 14k.
Condition: In excellent condition with a light patina and oxidization to the gold. The jet drops show minimal wear with no obvious nibbles, chips or cracks.
Jet is essentially a type of fossilized wood, like coal, and has been used in jewelry since the Neolithic period; it became especially popular in the 19th century for mourning jewelry due to it's inky color, light weight and the ease with which it can be carved.
Details: Measuring approximately 3" long from top of the ear wire curve to the bottom of the drop, approximately 3.3 grams total weight for each earring. The wires open back to front, to be inserted through the back of the lobe and latched closed at the top. Not marked for metal content but acid tested to at least 14k.
Condition: In excellent condition with a light patina and oxidization to the gold. The jet drops show minimal wear with no obvious nibbles, chips or cracks.