Incredible detail completely fills the outer layer. This detail consists of beadwork, grooving, and similar geometric motifs. Another layer of beading lies between this outer region and the central urn. This beadwork or balls would allow these to highly compliment a cannonball chain. The central engraved urn/vase have unique flowers spilling outward. The overall motif is truly Victorian but simple enough to allow them to be a daily option.
Hallmarks are found on the unadorned back of each earring along with JW. This J.W. indicates the maker. Most earrings are not hallmarked much less accompanied by a maker's mark.
These traditional Victorian sterling silver earrings are an average size at 1" long and 1/2" wide. Victorian period earrings are typically all similar in size with varying floral, bird, and geometric designs. Most have French wires, such as these. A few stud forms will be found.
They are in keeping with the same style and ideology as the bangles, bracelets, collars, and chains from the same period. No two pairs are the same as each was made for a special person.
Earrings are in excellent condition.
Most were produced either in the Chester or Birmingham regions of England during the 1880's to the turn of the century.
The ideology in Victorian times was that more was better. Thus, ladies would be adorned with several lockets and bracelets at one time which is why the bracelets were designed with flat sides to make it easier for them to stack and chains will be found in all lengths. This line of thinking better explains the elaborate details of the lockets, earrings, and chains. Some think of this time as being simpler, but it really was a time of lavishness. The silver jewelry was often their traveling jewelry while they would save their jewels for galas and gatherings.
These pieces were not mass produced; thus, each piece is truly a work of art. They were not made for export to the United States which makes their availability limited. Often one will see pictures of Queen Victoria wearing a locket or another bold piece of jewelry. This was deliberate as she wanted to promote the industry. She was so successful that they had to open an assay office in Birmingham. Assay offices were where the piece was impressed with a stamp indicating type of metal, year of production, and origin of production. This was certifying the piece by the Crown…somewhat similar to notarizing something today. Prior to the opening of the Birmingham assay office, the jewelry makers had to send all their wares to London for testing. Once tested, the piece would then be marked and could be sold for silver. There are books to help you identify each of these assay marks. The majority of the pieces sold were not marked as there was not a safe means to transport the items to and from the assay offices.
Dimensions:1" long x .5" wide
Condition:Excellent condition. Original wires are molded into the earrings.
Web ID:MA20-429
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