Belle Epoque Natural Pearl and Diamond Drop Earrings in Silver and Gold

A beautiful pair of natural light grey pearl and old cut diamond drop earrings from the Belle Epoque period. Top stud sections showcase lustrous light grey natural pearls that have been surrounded by old cut diamonds (2.34cts). These date from an earlier period, and have been adapted through the addition of gold flexible millegrain drop sections. Larger grey pearls define both of these elements looking superb worn with long or short hair styles. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, natural pearl jewellery was an instantly recognisable symbol of wealth and status. Plucked from the depths of the dangerous Persian Gulf by only the bravest of divers, the largest and most lustrous examples were worth far more than diamonds. Beautifully crafted these earrings show how jewellery was adapted and modified as fashions and tastes changed in the early part of the 20th-century. Eye catching drop style earrings set with impressive diamonds and gemstones were incredibly popular during this period. An instant signifier of wealth and status these earrings would delicately move with the wearer, and dazzle with life and fire. Jewellery was worn to excess during this period with chokers, sautoirs, bracelets, rings and head ornaments contributing to a marvellous spectacle.