These yellow gold hoop earrings are typical Sicilian designs, which originate from the 18th Century. They are dubbed 'navicella' because the bottom half traditionally resembled the side of a galley, although this shape would become more abstract over time.
Both sides of each earring are decorated with with blue, white, and black enamel. Each element is topped by the shape of an urn, decorated with black enamel, and has three dangly gold bars, which are terminated by emerald beads.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 40 x 18 mm / 1.58 x 0.70 inches.
Weight: combined 5.11 grams.
Age: Late 18th Century to early 19th Century.
Material and hallmarks: These earrings have hallmarks on top of each hook, that I was unfortunately not able to identify. They have been tested as being 12k gold, an alloy that was used often in Sicily.
Condition: The earrings are in good antique condition with only minor wear, consistent with their age. The enamel has light wear in some places, as can be seen in the pictures. I am not certain if the emeralds are a replacement, since I have only seen similar examples set with tiny pearls instead of emeralds.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes.