Art Nouveau Rock Crystal and Diamond Drop Earrings in 18ct White Gold & Platinum

A commanding pair of diamond and polished rock crystal drop earrings from the Art Nouveau period (c.1905). Supremely elegant when worn these earrings are composed of two ethereal polished rock crystal drop elements. These almost glowing stones are set into lustrous platinum mounts that have been studded with small old cut diamonds to add life and fire to these superb drop elements. Diamond set leaf forms cap the top and bottom of each drop with naturalistic bow forms forming the top stud sections. The pure, icelike qualities of carved and polished rock crystal quartz have been admired for thousands of years. The famed 17th century Chateau of Versailles in France features countless majestic chandeliers that sparkle with carved rock crystal drops. Used widely during the Art Nouveau and Art Deco period for jewellery in clearly polished and frosted forms, it both perfectly complemented sparkling diamonds, and contrasted against coloured gemstones. A famous devotee of rock crystal jewels was the American actress Gloria Swanson (1899-1983). An icon of the early days of film she was famously photographed wearing two bold rock crystal and diamond bracelets.