These Victorian 14k gold dormeuse earrings feature a central pearl surrounded by a halo of Old Mine Cut diamonds. The stones are prong set with elevated carriage work reminiscent of a crown. The diamonds add a sparkle while the pearls add a soft glow, creating a lovely floral shape. The delicate nature of these earrings make them classical “dormeuse” earrings, which means sleeper in French, a term used from the mid-19th to early 20th century that refers to earrings that are comfortable enough to sleep in. Floral and feminine, these make wonderful bridal earrings.
Each earring contains nine 2.5 mm natural antique Old Mine Cut diamonds (18 in total). The Old Mine Cut diamonds are chunky with high tables. Because there are many diamonds in this antique piece, there is a range of color and clarity—the variety is beautiful and adds character to the piece. The color ranges from I-K and the clarity ranges from SI1-I. There is approximately 1.1 of a carat of diamonds. The natural antique pearls measure 4.5mm each.
The earrings have lever backs with a nice, secure clasp to them. The earrings measure 1/4” x 5/16”. Combined they weigh 3.35 grams. Unmarked, but acid test as 14k. Circa 1880’s.
For pierced ears.
