Romantic and dreamy, with a storied history!

Coral is one of the most beautiful stones in the decorative arts. It’s vivid hue – which ranges from peachy orange to deep blood red – always immediately captures the gaze, imbuing whomever wears it with a mystical and memorable aura. It’s no wonder then, that coral features most prominently in portrait paintings of the 18th and 19th centuries.

In a portrait by the artist Augustin-André Heguin, a young aristocrat woman gazes coquettishly out at the viewer, adorned in a deep red coral beaded necklace and dainty coral drop earrings.

If we were to take the coral drop earrings offered here today and replace them in the painting, they would be a near perfect match! But that is no surprise; this stunning pair of coral drop earrings, crafted circa 1860’s in 14 carat gold, are a perfect painting worthy example of Sicilian Coral! Such a simple design, and yet the timeless glamour is unlike any other.

Italian in origin, they were likely carved and fashioned in Italy, and then sold as a “Grand Tour” souvenir to a fashionable gentleman for his lady – or to the lady herself. These earrings draw upon the class 18th century Iberian “Girandole” shape, which is characterized by an elaborate bow motif from which 3 dangling pear-shape ornaments are suspended from.

This pair of earrings update this iconic design to better suit Victorian sensibilities; the design is much more sleek and modern in comparison to the chandelier-like traditional Iberian Girandole designs embody.

And indeed these earrings are so classically 1860’s in their interest in geometry and sensual fall. A truly remarkable addition to any antique jewelry collection!

Materials and Features: Coral, 14ct

Age/Origin: Italian, 1860

Marks: None

Measurements: 2.5” 5.43g each

Condition: Excellent; one coral drop is pinned.

Please view and inspect any photos closely. We endeavor to fully disclose all condition information clearly and concisely, however, please note that what qualifies as excellent condition for historical jewelry differs from modern and contemporary pieces; please take the age of the piece into account when examining the piece. Minor age wear is typical and to be expected for antique and vintage jewelry. Unless otherwise stated, gemstones have not been officially graded for color, clarity, or treatment by GIA; any information provided is our own educated, professional assessment.