Victorian Etruscan Revival 14K Gold Earrings and Brooch in Excellent Condition!

This exceptional demi parure is in its original condition! It is very hard tp find Victorian earrings which were not converted to screw backs or marred by grey solder. The brooch is also in original condition, with its C clasp and steel pin. Steel was used so the pin did not bend when pushed through the heavy fabrics of the day. These types of pin backs seem loose until put through fabric. They were often converted to safety clasps, but this was usually not necessary.

Inspired by the discovery of ancient civilizations, the jewelers of the Victorian period began creating Etruscan and Egyptian revival jewelry. Their discerning customers sought to command attention with this showy and sophisticated jewelry. During the 1860s-1880s, jewelry was large and boasted intricate detail. This is a stunning example from the period which is very wearable today.

This set tests to be 14k gold and has retained the wonderful wire work and applied beading. The earrings measure 1 5/8" in length including the wire and the brooch is 1 1/2" long. Together they weigh 8.2 grams. As you can imagine, this was labor intensive and far superior to the cast jewelry of today. The pyramid shapes and rectangular shaped tabs are pink gold. The background is matte gold. So unique and wonderful!