These silver earrings were made in the late 18th Century on the Iberian peninsula, most likely in Spain. Their design is named 'girandole', after a three-armed type of candelabra. A girandole is always made up of three parts: a relatively simple top, a more elaborate central part, and three pear-shaped drops.
The top, middle, and center are set with oval and pear-faceted citrines, which are set in closed settings with red foils behind them. This colour combination was very popular in the 18th and early 19th Century and is now known in the trade as 'oil and vinegar'.
The earrings are fitted with the original hook-closings, which are threaded through the ear in the front, and close in the back.
A similar pair can be found in the collection of the Museo Nacional de Artes Decorativas in Madrid, Spain, inventory number CE18288.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 64 x 22 mm.
Weight: Combined weight 14.86 grams.
Age: 18th Century, also known as the Georgian era, circa 1760.
Material: Acid tested as being silver.
Condition: In good antique condition with only minor wear, consistent with their age. The back of one of the earrings has two small repair marks.
Read how to take care of foiled jewellery here.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes only.