Antique Stuart Crystal Silver and Gold Earrings, Georgian, c. 1650.
Stuart Crystal silver and gold earrings, c. 1650, Georgian, (King George the Second). These Stuart Crystals, square cut with soft corners, are set in silver with gold wire, which were probably updated and replaced. The Crystals are held by multiple prongs which are in good condition (especially given the age of these earrings). Usually on pieces of this age, there is obvious repair and restabilization, especially on the prongs caused by wear. Also, It is important that the prongs are that there is no gaps between the crystals and the metal because getting moisture behind the crystals is undesirable.
Under the flat topped crystal with faceted sides, is the scepter which is made probably of gold (or a gold colored) thread, placed on a red background which gives off a red/pink hue. This red background usually fades with time.
Stuart Crystal jewelry was worn as a rememberance by sympathizers of King Charles 1, from the House of Stuart, convicted of treason and executed on January 30th, 1649.
These earrings are silver, 800. We have acid tested the silver to confirm this. The earring's shepard hooks are 15K, and again we have acid tested to confirm the gold. The earrings had originally a gold wash which can be still seen in places on the back of the earrings.
The crystals measure one half inch in length and slightly more than one half inch in width.
We have encountered over the many decades Stuart Crystal jewelry. These earrings in good condition are a fine example of a most unusual type of antique jewelry.