Antique 18K Gold Rhodolite Garnet Day/Night Napoleon III French 3 in 1 Earrings c. 1880

These breathtaking antique 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 flat cut rhodolite garnet which measures 5 mm across and centers a beautifully crafed floral design. The matching bottom dangle is centered by a rhodolite garnet measuring 4 mm across. The garnets are a very beautiful purplish red. 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 (eagle head hallmark), Rhodolite Garnet
Period: Victorian c. 1880
Weight: 3.5 g
Size: 1.9" or 4.8 cm drop length

Sleeper:
Weight: 1.75 g (together)
Size: 0.9" x 0.43" or 2.3 x 1.1 cm

Pendant Bottom:
Weight: 1.75 g (together)
Size: 1.1" x 0.5" or 2.9 cm x 1.3 cm

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.