Antique Iberian Girandole Earrings, ca 1780

During the 18th century, the discovery of vast gold and diamond mines in the Portuguese colony of Brazil completely transformed the European jewelry landscape. Lisbon became a vibrant hub for spectacular design, fueled by an influx of these New World treasures. Portuguese workshops became uniquely famous for combining rich gold with high-quality stones, establishing a distinct and opulent aesthetic that celebrated the abundance of raw materials. These stunning girandole earrings are a beautiful testament to that golden era. They feature a classic three-drop silhouette that was the height of Georgian elegance, set with a meticulous mix of historic rose and table-cut diamonds. Beautifully articulated, they catch the light with every movement of the head. Remarkably, they retain their original back-to-front earwires, making them a rare and coveted survival from the period. Infused with rich history yet completely timeless, these elegant earrings are so much fun to wear. Portuguese, ca 1780