Georgian Sterling Silver Paste Drop Earrings in Original Jeweller’s Box
Period: Georgian, 18th to early 19th century
Material: Sterling silver and hand-cut paste stones
Style: Articulated floral drop earrings
Presentation: Original fitted jeweller’s box
A particularly beautiful pair of Georgian sterling silver paste drop earrings, designed to imitate the brilliance and elegance of diamond-set jewellery. Paste jewellery became highly fashionable during the Georgian period, allowing skilled cutters and setters to create remarkable sparkle, particularly when worn by candlelight. Surviving museum examples confirm the use of silver and paste for earrings throughout the 18th century.
Each earring is formed as a graceful cascading floral design, with graduated faceted paste stones set amongst delicate silver leaves and flowerheads. The articulated construction allows the lower sections to move gently when worn, catching the light beautifully.
The earrings retain their traditional curved ear wires and have a wonderful untouched appearance, with the softly aged silver and paste giving them the character expected of antique Georgian jewellery.
Particularly appealing is the original fitted jeweller’s box, stamped to the interior Robert Zimmer, Jeweller, adding considerably to the charm and collectability of the pair.
Condition
Very good antique condition with age-related wear and patination consistent with their considerable age. As with all antique paste jewellery, the stones show the subtle variations and mellowing that form part of their historic character. Please refer closely to the photographs for condition.
Heritage House Notes
Genuine Georgian paste earrings are increasingly sought after, particularly elaborate articulated examples that retain their original presentation box. These are wonderfully wearable pieces of jewellery with more than two centuries of history behind them.
Measurements
Drop: 5.5cm
Width at widest point: 1cm
A rare and romantic pair of Georgian earrings – beautiful enough for an evening occasion, yet with all the individuality and history that only antique jewellery can offer.
