Paste, the original rhinestone, dates back to the 1720s. The technique of hand-cutting heavily leaded glass was developed by King Louis XV's court jeweler and treasured by royalty and aristocrats for over a century thereafter. While we view rhinestones as a kind of faux gemstone, paste was highly regarded as an exciting new art form back then. 

This charming pair of dangle earrings certainly have a regal aesthetic, and may very well have been worn at court! Crafted between the 1830s and 1850s, their exquisite, highly ornate design features hand-chased flowers and repoussé leaves in rich yellow gold, alongside hand-wrought details, granulation, and over-lapping scrolls. These artful gold-smithing techniques are hallmarks of the period, serving as a testament to the fine, handmade jewels of the Victorian era. The paste stones are well-matched and boast an alluring shade of pink that sparkles with impressive, gemstone-like clarity. This uncommon pair of antique paste earrings are certain to be coveted, even by the most discerning of antique jewelry collectors!

• 1830-1850s, Antique 
• 14k yellow gold
• Foiled Pink Paste
• Measurements: 2 inches long by 3/4 of an inch at its widest point (drop)

Inventory # P20492