Antique Late 18th Century Iberian Emerald Earrings

In the late 18th century, the pendeloque silhouette was the perfect companion to the sky-high hairstyles of the day. The towering, padded wigs weren’t just fashion statements...they were feats of engineering, and sometimes so large they made squeezing into a carriage an adventure. Long, swaying earrings like these provided the ideal visual counterweight, catching the light and adding a dash of sparkle to all that lofty drama.

These late 18th century Iberian pendeloque earrings are an exquisite example of the cluster bow drop design that flourished in Spain and Portugal during the period. Set with vibrant emeralds, the rich green hue creates a striking contrast with the high karat gold. The top element contains a central emerald surrounded by a halo of smaller stones and adorned on top with a leafy lace-like pattern. Below, a flowing, emerald encrusted bow with delicate filigree suspends a pear shaped drop centered by a triangular truncated emerald and table-cut surround, finished with the same delicate foliate to mirror the top of the earrings. 

Entirely hand fabricated and beautifully articulated, these earrings swing and sway with gracefully with movement. They retain the original front to back hook closures, a hallmark of period craftsmanship. 

Metal: 18k gold

Measurements:  2 1/8" x 1 1/4"

Weight: 11.7 grams

Notes: One of the tiny emeralds at the base of a cluster is inset but secure. The earrings are in antique condition, showing signs of wear consistent with age. There are traces of repairs made in antiquity. They are in good working order. 

References:

Earrings from Antiquity to the Present - Daniela Mascettti and Amanda Triossi  (pp 55, 63)

Georgian Jewellery 1714- 1830 - Ginny Redington Dawes and Olivia Collings (pp 108-109)