These elaborate drop earrings are made from cut-steel, which was a novelty material in the early 18th Century. The centuries have given these earrings a darkened, almost gun-metal appearance, but they would have originally been bright silvery in colour. The riveted facets would therefore create a bright sparkle, faintly mirroring the appearance of diamonds.
The tops are set with tiny riveted steel studs, which were drilled into the setting, while the bow-shape bottoms were cast with the studs already present.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 34 x 9 mm, measured from hook to tip.
Weight: combined 4.05 grams.
Age: Late 18th Century, also known as the Georgian era, circa 1790s.
Material: Steel.
Condition: In good antique condition with only minor wear, consistent with their age.