Beautiful torpedo-shaped drops are suspended from classic balls in this wonderful pair of Etruscan Revival 14k gold earrings. The fronts of the torpedos are decorated with twisted wires of varying lengths that create a chevron pattern. Each of the twisted wires ends with a granulated ball—the effect draws the eye toward the point of the torpedo. Circa the 1870’s-1880’s, a wonderful patina has accrued between the wiring. The hollow drops have lovely movement as they dangle from the ears.
Etruscan Revival jewelry has a rich an interesting history. In the early 1800s there was a large excavation of Etruscan tombs outside of Rome. Within these tombs were pieces of original Etruscan jewelry. The Etruscans were master artisans, they created breathtaking pieces of jewelry through their use of gold wire and beading, colored gemstones and glass. The news of the excavation of these tombs, and the treasures contained inside them, spread throughout Europe. Etruscan style jewelry captured the imagination of the public and soon jewelers, particularly those in England, began to produce elaborate pieces of jewelry in the style of the Etruscans. Etruscan revival jewelry rose to popularity with the people of Victorian England. Inspired by the Etruscans, jewelers implemented the use of wirework, beading, filigree and granulation.
Combined, the earrings weigh 4.25 grams. They are 1 1/4” x 3/8”. They are unmarked, but test as 14k gold. A century and a half old, they are in great condition with minimal, age-appropriate wear: there are a few pinhole sized dents along the side of one of the earrings, not visible when worn.
For pierced ears.
