Antique 18K Gold Day and Night Belle Epoque Pendant Earrings

These charming French pendant earrings were created in the second half of the 19th century, circa 1880. Elegant and practical, they can be worn either as small and understated 'sleeper' earring or with a bolder dangle. The bottom portion of the earrings are removable and slide easily over the hinge. If you so desire, they could also be worn as a a lovely parure by adding a bail to one of the attachments and hanging it on a chain. This makes them versatile, as well as an excellent example of 1800s craftsmanship and fashion. Owners often had multiple pairs of sleeper and pendant portions which they could mix and match.

The sleeper portion features a round disk with an engine turned design, framed in a green gold wreath. The bottom dangle has a matching engine turned design and wreath for a bolder statement. It is special to find a pair of earrings which still contain the original top and sleeper portion as the hinges to the top sleeper portion are fragile and often either broke or were smelted over time.

CONDITION NOTES:
The earrings are in very good antique condition with light micro-scratches from age and use. The top sleeper portion has hinges which are strong with good tension and alignment. They have a good latch. They do take some getting used to as this is an old style in which the top hinge threads through the back of the ear and attaches to a rivet at the top.

Together:
Material: 18K Gold
Period: Victorian c. 1880
Weight: 5.25 g

Sleeper:
Weight: 2.70 g (together)
Size: 0.63" x 0.43" or 1.6 x 1.1 cm

Pendant Bottom:
Weight: 1.75 g (together)
Size: 0.63" or 1.6 cm diameter

We are pleased to offer a layaway option in 2,3, or 4 monthly installments. You can message directly to set up a payment plan so that you can become the next owner of this beautiful piece of history.

All items in the shop are shipped with tracking and insurance within 48 hours of receiving an order. Items over 250 euros are shipped via Colissimo Express so that your item is in your hands as quickly as possible.

Please check all photos, descriptions, and measurements thoroughly. Contact me if you have any questions and I'll be happy to answer.