Antique Earrings
A pair of beautiful earrings can glamorously elevate an outfit. There are a wide selection of antique earrings to choose from, including drop earrings, chandelier earrings, hoop earrings, studs and clip-on earrings. Antique earrings are a lovely gift, a simple keepsake to be treasured and worn on special occasions. The design of earrings vary greatly, so what kind of pair you choose to purchase will rest largely on what type of look you wish to emulate; studs are subtler, whereas a pair of cascading chandelier earrings can be show stopping.
History of Earrings
Ear piercing is one of the oldest forms of modifying and decorating one’s body. References to earrings date back thousands of years, earrings are mentioned in the bible, and there is historical evidence they were worn in Ancient Persia and Egypt. Earrings have not only been worn for aesthetic purposes but they have held religious and cultural significance or been a form of tribal identity in some cases.
For a sailor the wearing of an earring signified that they had crossed the equator or sailed around the world. Earrings have also been symbolic of social status, and were worn to show off one’s wealth in the Roman Empire. The English Renaissance in the later part of the 1500’s saw a resurgence in their popularity and earrings were seen as very fashionable.
Types of Antique Earrings
There are limited antique earrings from the Georgian period of 1760-1837, so they are very difficult to acquire. Smaller earrings, such as diamond earrings from this period are extremely valuable.
The Victorian period, which followed from 1837-1901, is a popular period from a collector’s point of view to acquire jewellery from. The earrings from this time may feature hearts, bows and flowers, which were popular motifs of the era.
Earrings with garnet, turquoise, opal and amethyst were popular gemstones of choice. Victorian earrings were usually produced using cut crystal and gemstones. Men often wore a single stud as a mark of respect during this time. In the latter part of the Victorian period, jewellery took on a darker theme with the passing of Prince Albert and black onyx earrings were prominent.
Edwardian antique earrings tend to be more elegant and delicate with lace detailing. The Art Deco period between 1920-1935 saw diamonds and platinum more readily available, as well as sapphire, ruby and emerald earrings being favoured. During this time there was also African, Egyptian and Oriental themes in some jewellery and there are some lovely vintage pairs of earrings available. During the Art Deco period double pearl studs were worn, as were pearl studs surrounded by gemstones and diamonds, it created quite the sophisticated look.
Vintage earrings such as those from the Retro era are often multicoloured, made from yellow gold and may feature brightly coloured gemstones, they are perfect for a cocktail party as they are both flashy and extravagant.
It is possible to purchase antique earrings made from gold, silver or platinum, with amethysts, jade, garnet, sapphires, pearls, diamonds, emeralds and rubies if you wish for a pair with gemstones or to buy a simple pair of antique studs. Whatever the occasion or style preference there is a pair of antique earrings to suit everyone’s taste.
