An exquisite pair of antique Victorian cameo drop earrings, exhibiting two hand-carved bullmouth shell cameos in the centre, depicting a Maltese cross topped with a crown. The cameos are set in ornate 18ct yellow gold galleries featuring beautiful coiling metalwork around the frames, with leaves above and a series of gold tassels dangling from the bottom.
The Maltese cross has been a key symbol of Malta’s heritage since it was first introduced by the Knights Hospitallers of St. John in the early 16th Century who used the crosses eight points to represent their eight obligations. It is often worn as a sign of protection, honour, and faith, and is sometimes topped with a crown as a symbol of royalty.
These are a spectacular pair of Victorian earrings, beautifully preserved from the late 19th Century. They display exquisite workmanship and dangle from gold hook wires, held in place by a C-catch.
We recommend you insure for £2,000. We can provide a written Valuation on completion of the sale.
WEIGHT: 12.9 grams together
MEASURE: Height 53mm (62mm inc. wires) x Width 24mm x Depth 7mm – Cameo Height 16mm x Width 12mm
METAL: 18ct Gold (Tested)
STONES: Bullmouth Shell
AGE: Victorian. (Circa 1860 – 1880)
MARKS: Faded markings on the hooks
CONDITION: Excellent, commensurate with age
ITEM NUMBER: 25-132
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