Circa 1920 Sapphire & Rose-Cut Diamond Star Earrings

Dating to circa 1920, these 14KT white gold and sterling silver earrings feature oval hammered surfaces with star-shaped settings. Each star holds a natural cushion mixed-cut sapphire surrounded by six bead-set natural rose-cut diamonds that form the rays of each star. The sapphires total .30 carats. Hammering does more than decorate a metal surface. By creating numerous small planes at slightly different angles, the technique changes the way light moves across the jewel. Here, the hammered field becomes part of the composition, giving these relatively small earrings considerable visual movement without adding more gemstones. The rose-cut diamonds serve a different purpose from a modern brilliant. Their shallow profiles and broad facets produce a gentler reflection, allowing them to define the star without overpowering the sapphires or the textured metal. Appraised Value: $2,800