Sometimes size does matter. These rare tortoiseshell shoulder-dusters are exemplary not only in their grand scale but their sheer elegance of form. Amber-hued with more than a hint of luminescence, they look delectable enough to eat.
As with most haute couture, the vogue for elongated pendant earrings began in France, and reached its zenith in England in the 1860s. Beloved by Victorians for its inherent exoticism, the art of piqué (tortoiseshell inlaid with miniature gold and silver points) was introduced to the English by French Huguenot refugees as early as 1685.
Our piqué pendant earrings consist of elongated pear-shaped drops, bisected by vertical bands of silver and gold piqué point, and framed with a simple gold border, which curls into a scroll form at the base. Additional piqué bands adorn the sides. Last but not least, the earring backs are embellished with linear piqué bands that end in a geometric floral motif. The sizable beaded surmounts are encircled with bands of gold and silver piqué point. Gold S hook ear wires are cleverly hinged so that the pendants dangle perfectly.
Era: Victorian
Origin: England
Circa: 1860
Condition: Excellent
Materials: Tortoiseshell, gold and silver
Dimensions: 10 cm long, 15.87 mm wide
Weight: 25.3 grams
Caramel-colored cashmere
$3,600.00
