This regal pair of 'Giardinetti' (little garden) earrings hails from the 19th century. This Italian word describes jewelry with gems set into floral motifs and openwork resembling bouquets or gardens, and often arranged in vases or baskets. These exemplary earrings were handcrafted in sterling silver and studded with an array of sparkling paste stones. These heavily leaded glass stones were the rhinestone of the time, and considered much more of an art form, as they were hand-cut and faceted to mimic the diamonds of the era! Many of the dazzling stones are carefully set into crimped collet settings they are all prong-set, guaranteeing they will be secure for decades to come. This historied pair of earrings has been well-loved, with some dullness in a few stones due to moisture discoloration in their foiled backs and typical ageing. They remain unique beauties worth treasuring for their glittering charm and antique patina alike!

• Handmade in 925 sterling silver with 10k blush gold screw-on backs
• Paste stones, as-is
• Can be converted to posts for pierced ears upon request
• Each earring measures 3 3/4 inches long by 1 inch (at their widest points)

Inventory # P16507