Rose-Cut Diamond Cluster Stud Earrings

Curator’s Note: “A small dome of rose-cut diamonds on each ear: one larger stone in the centre, ringed by eight smaller ones. Rose cuts are flat on the back and carry a gentle, silvery light, not a sparkle. The silver fronts are pierced in a fine open pattern, and the little diamonds show their age honestly, with a few worn edges. They are quiet, daily earrings.”

Story of the Period: In the later Victorian years, small diamond clusters were set in silver at the front, because silver gave a cool, white background to the stones, and gold at the back, where it touched the skin. Rose-cut diamonds were used by the dozen, because each one cost little and the effect of many together was soft and luminous.

Details:

N: 022/26

Era: Victorian, c. 1880 to 1900

Material: Silver fronts with 9ct gold backs (tested). The scroll backs are stamped 9K. Fitted with later posts.

Gemstones: 18 rose-cut diamonds, 9 per earring: 1 larger centre stone, approx. 2mm, and 8 smaller stones around it, approx. 1.5mm. Approx. 0.35ct total (estimated).

Diameter: approx. 0.8cm each

Weight: 1.67g the pair

Condition: Good. Wear and light scratching to the metal and some tarnish on the silver. Some diamonds have scratches and small chips at the edges. All stones are secure.

Provenance: Sourced in the United Kingdom

Gemstones are described from our own examination. Not laboratory tested; stones may be treated.

Ships to Hungary and the EU.

Viewings by appointment in Budapest, Paris, London or online.