Neoclassical Hera Cameo Earrings
Beautiful Victorian earrings in the Etruscan Revival style. Crafted in 18 carat gold, they are each set with a shell cameo depicting Hera (or Juno, to the Romans), and feature delicate repoussé gold work with a looped gold wire border. They were made during the latter half of the 19th century, circa 1870.
Hera was Queen of Olympus, reigning alongside her husband-brother, Zeus, and one of the most significant (yet overlooked) deities in the Greek pantheon. Daughter of the Titans Kronos and Rhea, she represented marriage, women, kings and dynasties, as well as the skies and constellations.
Hera was both regal and majestic, the embodiment of royal duty, and is usually depicted wearing a diadem or marriage veil. She has been often, in modern times, painted as a villain of sorts, but the original mythology told tales of a survivor: resilient, brave, and fiercely protective, but forced to live under the strict and cruel limitations placed upon her by Zeus (mirroring the patriarchal nature of ancient Greek society, and indeed highlighting the gender inequalities that remain in our own). She was instrumental in the destruction of Kronos, and yet her brothers took all the credit, and suffered countless betrayals, not just by her husband, but by virtually everyone close to her.
Era: Neoclassical, circa 1870
Size: 1.9cm by 6.7cm (including hook)
Stone: Bull's mouth shell
Hallmarks: None present, tested as 22ct gold
Condition: Good antique condition, the wires are likely later additions. One earring has some damage at the top - see images
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
Express shipping is free of charge and carbon offset
Tracked and insured with signature on delivery
UPS Express (International)
RM Special Delivery (UK domestic)
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Resizing
Ring sizing is available on most rings
£35 flat fee
Resizing takes 7-14 days
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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, 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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alex@lostowl.jewelry