These 18k yellow gold earrings are each set with two oval-shaped onyx panels. The hooks are threaded through the back of the lobe and close at the front of the earrings, a feature very typical of 19th Century earrings.
Each earring carries the hallmarks (depicting the papal crown and two crossed keys) of the Vatican Workshop, which was founded in 1727, originally to restore the existing mosaic artworks around the Saint Peter Cathedral. Over time, the workshop started creating jewellery for the growing group of wealthy Grand Tour visitors to Rome, who wanted to bring a souvenir back home from their travels.
The workshop originally specialised in micro mosaic jewels, but created other designs too. I suspect these earrings were created for someone in mourning since they are made from onyx (the background for most micro mosaics) but lack any further decoration or colour.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 20 x 12 mm.
Weight: combined 1.50 grams.
Age: 19th Century, circa 1860.
Material: acid tested as 18k gold, and hallmarked for the Vatican workshops.
Condition: In good antique condition with only minor wear, consistent with their age.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes.