Victorian Etruscan Revival 15ct Gold Garnet Earrings

An exceptionally lovely pair of Victorian historical revival earrings which found their inspiration in the Etruscan discoveries which were being shown in exhibitions in Italy at the time and this was a popular trend amongst Victorian fashionistas who wanted to pay homage to history and signal their cultured status.

The Etruscans were a pre-Roman people who lived on the western coast of Italy from around 700–300 BC. Excavations had unearthed beautiful examples of their jewellery which was known for its intricate filigree, wirework and granulation; techniques which were revived at this time by enthusiastic jewellers keen to produce pieces for the well to do. 

These earrings are beautifully crafted (nice and light as they are hollow) and have fine applied wirework designs with miniature beads of Gold and circles set with cabochon Garnets to accent the larger wine hued Pyrope Garnet to the base. Exquisite!

The metal has been tested as 15ct Gold, a standard which was used solely in Britain between the years of 1854-1932; and the earwires too (which are likely replacements) are hand crafted. 

The earrings measure 3.5cm from the top of the wire which passes through the ear.