Antique Georgian Pinchbeck Chandelier Torpedo Earrings

About the Item

A magnificent example of history, these long beautifully granulated chandelier earrings are set with amethysts from early c. 1790 and were made in the United Kingdom. They are light on the ear and completely original other than the shepherd hooks which are easier to insert rather than the back to front hooks.. Antique earrings are dear and rare to find in original condition, as many have lost the top section. These earrings superb quality, decorated with tiny orbs of gold ( granulation) applied on the long stem part. Father time knows how granulation adhered without glue or solder. The top and lowest section are engraved in repousse, the method of engraving where the gold sheet is pushed out into a design from the back creating volume and dimension. Floral designs cover the bottom inch of the earrings. The magical secret of Pinchbeck is that no expertise was spared in its creation, rather it took a master of alchemy and ingenuity to create the gold metal formula. Pinchbeck was that alchemist. He was a British Watchmaker. He concentrated on making the first fine gold metal that was not actually gold but became as valuable. He and his son were the only living to know the formula, a marvelous gold metal that never tarnishes, is a comfortable weight and is strong and durable. It became sought after by royalty and jewelry lovers throughout the world. Made only for a short period, it is valuable, desirable and precious. Later gold filled and gold plated jewelry does not match the beauty. Pinchbeck jewelry has a value equal to gold when it is the true, original pinchbeck. When found it is sold by the finest antique jewelers. Condition is fabulous, just as it was when originally created. For more about Pinchbeck go to the jewelry history books such as "Georgian Jewelry" written by Ginny Dawes and Olivia Collings. See Page 33 for two examples of earrings, one with new tops, one with original tops. The length of this pair is a grand 3 1/2 inches. Weight: 9.3 grams each earring.

Metal:

Pinchbeck

Stone:

Amethyst

Stone Cut:

Round Cut

Weight:

18.3 g

Dimensions:

Width: 0.5 in (12.7 mm)Length: 3.5 in (88.9 mm)

Style:

Georgian