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Often thought to be the product of alchemy, goldstone is neither gold nor stone but a type of glittering, copper-infused glass made in a low-oxygen reducing atmosphere.
Formed by magic or not, these dazzling Victorian-era earrings are sure to enchant friends and onlookers alike!
Each glittering graduated goldstone disk is backed with a layer of white and black glass to fool the eye and give the piece a sardonyx like appearance.
Adding an additional layer of sparkle is another favorite fake of the Georgian and Victorian eras: cut steel! Designed to imitate gemstones, particularly diamonds in low-light settings, cut steel was especially popular in France and Switzerland in the 18th century when sumptuary laws dictated who could and couldn't wear diamonds and precious metals. Its popularity continued into the late Victorian period, though few pieces have survived due to the highly corrosive nature of steel.
These heavily polished, chip carved pieces of cut steel are riveted through each goldstone disk and also are used as spacers to add just the perfect amount of dangle. They do have a little rust, but the fact that they have survived this long should be considered a triumph!
Earrings have a sterling ear hook, which looks to have been a later addition/replacement.
Additional Details
Date: 1890s
Materials: Brass, Sterling Silver, Goldstone, Cut Steel, Glass
Measurements: 2 3/8" drop length
Markings: None
Condition: Good.
There are two minor chips in the black glass and some minor tarnish to the steel cut beads.
Clean with warm water and soap with a soft bristle brush. Be sure to thoroughly dry the earrings to prevent rusting of the steel.
