Victorian Grand Tour Day to Night Earrings with Acorns c.1850

An absolutely exceptional pair of mid-19th century Victorian coral earrings — probably the best I've ever seen. The studs show matching cameos carved in the classical style of the early Victorian period. The earrings can be then transformed to be nighttime appropriate with the addition of carved acorn drops. It is this detail that makes this pair of earrings so unusual and rare: the acorns are carved so intricately and well, and in the tradition of Georgian coral carvings which makes me believe this was made in the earlier part of the Victorian period. The acorn was a beloved symbol of strength, growth and new beginning. It is unusual to see it carved from coral. This pair of earrings is undoubtedly a Grand Tour souvenir brought home from Italy by American or English well-to-do gentlemen who had the means to study antiquities in person. Coral is a natural gem cherished since antiquities for its association of protection, particular of infants. A weighty pair of day-to-night earrings with comfortable heft. A truly rare beauty.

Specifications

Unmarked, acid test to be 10k gold.

Cameos measure 12mm x 14mm each, acorn drops measure 10mm x 18mm each. Total weight 8.93g.

Care

Please note that because coral is an organic material, it is very sensitive to moisture and chemical so please avoid showering or exercising with them. The coral pieces are also partially held secure by old animal glue, which would deteriorate with water or moisture exposure. Please note that the drops are weighty and would slip off the lever when you open the clasp, so please take care to hold the drop as you take them on and off.

Condition

In very good condition commensurate with age. The coral pieces are in fantastic shape, but please note they do show natural imperfections (please see photos). One acorn's tip has a slight abrasion. The earring posts and lever-back are later hand-fabricated additions (before mid-20th century) but are very substantial and secure. One of the acorn's cap appears to be a later replacement. Sections of the gold have firescale and natural surface oxidation, which is consistent with the age of the piece. The old glue can be see in spots from the back only. All gems appear secure. Please note that this is a pre-owned piece and is therefore not in mint condition. Sold as-is.