19th Century Shakudō Dragon Earrings
Stunning antique dragon earrings each built around two shakudō (赤銅) panels set over silver backs. Shakudō is a Japanese mixed-metal alloy of gold and copper (typically 4-10% and 96-90% respectively) used for inlays and decorative purposes. As with these, it's often treated to produce a black patina then inlayed with gold.
The dragons stand out in stark contrast against the swirling black background, wriggling and writing on and off the frame. The panels date from the mid 19th century, likely mounted up in silver in the 1920s, maybe a little earlier.
Era: Shakudō panels, circa 1850. Earrings, circa 1920
Size: 5.0cm (from top of ear wire) by 1.5cm
Marks: None, backs and wires tested as silver. Dragons inlayed in 24ct gold over shakudō alloy
Condition: Great antique condition. Light wear consistent with age including some rubbing to the black patina on the edges of the panels
Full appraisal document provided with each item.
This includes a valuation for insurance purposes, item specifics, date, and origins (where applicable).
Gemstones are tested by an accredited gemmologist (Cert GA, Gemmological Association of Great Britain).
Shipping
UPS Express shipping is free of charge on international orders over £300 and it's carbon offset
Tracked and insured with signature on delivery
RM Special Delivery (UK domestic)
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Resizing
Ring sizing is available on most rings
£55 flat fee
Resizing takes 7-14 days
Leave a note at checkout with your desired size
Note: sizing may remove some of the patina (although we take every care to reduce this where possible)
Layaway
A 25% deposit will be taken to secure the item. The remaining balance will be settled in 90 days. You can pay installments weekly, monthly, or the full balance at the end - whatever works.
Condition
We offer detailed and accurate condition reports on each listing. These pieces are antique, vintage, or pre-loved and often over 100 years old so they're going to have lived a life. A healthy patina and the odd scuff/scrape are quite normal... it's part of their charm! Everything we present has been checked over by our jeweller and should be good for wear for many years to come (unless otherwise stated) but please remember to treat them with appropriate care and consideration for their age.
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