Etruscan Revival Torpedo Earrings
Striking antique Etruscan Revival torpedo earrings dating from the mid Victorian period, circa 1870. They're crafted in 9ct yellow gold, and feature wonderfully intricate applied goldwork. The torpedo-shaped drops dangling freely beneath domed tops with later-added ear wires and floral motifs
The Etruscans occupied the region formerly known as Etruria on Italian peninsula (modern day Tuscany) before the rise of Rome; their civilisation, one of the most magnificent Europe has ever seen, reached its peak in the 6th century BC, and its legacy influenced many aspects of the Roman empire. Essentially a federation of city-states, they were, amongst myriad other things, master goldsmiths, and shared a common language that is generally accepted as pre-Indo-European (!!!). The 19th century excavation of Etruscan tombs uncovered gold jewellery the likes of which had never been seen, inspiring jewellers (notably Castellani) to produce replicas of these ancient treasures in the archaeological revival style - often as commissions from European royalty. Designs would incorporate fine granulation, filligree, ropework, cannetille, micromosaics, and inlays of stones such as lapis, carnelian, banded agate, and malachite. There was a distinct schism between jewellers who sought to create facsimile replicas of ancient pieces, and jewellers who drew influence from ancient techniques, but wished to create unique pieces of their own design.
Era: Victorian circa 1870
Size: 5.3cm by 1.0cm
Marks: Ear wires have English hallmarks for 9ct gold. Drops tested as 9ct gold
Condition: Great antique condition with some tarnish/patina to the gold. Easily polished out if desired.
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
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, 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