The design of these 'poissarde' earrings are typical of the 'Biedemeijer' fashion was very popular in 1840s Germany. The fronts of each earring are shaped as a flower leaf, which is set with blue paste cabochon-stones, and imitation pearls. The fittings are threaded through the lobe from the back and close in the front, as is typical in this type of earrings.
The term 'schaumgold' refers to jewellery from the 1840s to 1860s that was made from very thin hammered gold plates. After flattening gold into a waver thin sheet, designs were stamped into them, and the end result was quite elaborate, but at the same time very light.
The upside of this technique is that these earrings are very comfortable to wear, but schaumgold is now relatively rare because many of them got damaged by extensive wear over time. The condition of these earrings is further detailed at the bottom.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 32 mm / 1.50 inches diameter
Weight: combined 4.48 grams.
Age: 19th Century, also known as the Victorian era, circa 1840s.
Material: These earrings have been hallmarked '14' for 14k gold.
Condition: These earrings are in antique condition, with signs of wear and repairs. Since schaumgold is very thin, the hollow hoops have received some dents, and the backs of the earrings both display an old solder repair. These damages and repairs can be seen in the pictures.
Please note that this store is based in the EU. Buyers from outside the EU might be subject to import duties and VAT.