Antique Garnet Shield Earrings

The shield is one of those shapes that has meant something for a very long time. Protection, strength, loyalty. These little antique shields have all of that going on, and then they went and set a deep red faceted garnet in a starburst at the centre of each one, which is exactly the right decision. Starburst settings are always in demand, and these are an antique original rather than a modern piece chasing the trend. The points radiate out from the stone and pull every bit of light and colour from the garnet, that deep, lustrous, utterly delicious red that garnets do so well. The construction is lovely throughout. Original shepherds hook wires, a neat gold ball separator, and the pendant hanging at a drop that moves beautifully without being impractical. On the back, stamped alongside the 9ct mark: REAL STONES. I find that very endearing. Condition is excellent throughout with the gold having a rich and true yellow tone. These are a fun and unusual addition to my collection, I was excited to find something I see very little of!