Antique Victorian Diamonds and Pearl Foliate Earring

A breathtaking specimen of late 19th-century European craftsmanship, c. 1890s.

This single Victorian-era earring features an intricate foliate design, masterfully handcrafted in silver over high-carat gold.

The centrepiece is a lustrous 9mm light silvery pearl with a soft, iridescent orient. The botanical motif is encrusted with a shimmering array of 34 antique rose-cut diamonds and 5 larger old-cut diamonds, totalling approximately 0.9ct of antique diamond brilliance.

While the second earring has been lost to time, this remains a premier candidate for a luxury conversion project - it would make an exquisite pendant or a bold "mismatched" statement earring for the modern collector.

Hallmarks - Portuguese rooster's head hallmark at the back of the earring (used between 1938 to 1985), although this may have been applied later when the jewel was assayed in Portugal. Another hallmarks are worn and unreadable.

Great antique condition -original patina preserved; light cleaning recommended per buyer preference.

Dimensions:
Size - 3,7cm c 2cm
Pearl ∅ - 9mm
Rose cut diamonds - 34pcs of between ∼ 0.01ct to 0.03ct each
Brilliant cut diamonds - 1pc of ∼0.04ct, 4pcs of ∼0.05ct each
Total carat weight of all diamonds ∼0.92ct
Weight - 5,64gr

Disclaimer:
As is standard with uncertified antique jewellery, all gemstone weights and metal fineness are estimated based on measurements and historical hallmarking. The pearl has not been X-ray tested for natural vs. cultured origin and is sold as a period-correct "real pearl".

Please note: Jewellery Box on photo is NOT included and was used for photoshoot purposes only.