By Spectra Fine Jewelry
Located in New York, NY
These Spectra Fine Jewelry Illusion Asscher-shape Diamond Stud Earrings, made in the 21st century, suggest something much larger. Crafted in 18K white gold, the pair of earrings has an estimated diamond-carat weight of 10.74. The arresting pair has a look equivalent to colossal square emerald-cut diamond studs. Still, in fact, each is comprised of nine pie-cut diamonds, weighing an approximate total of 5.37 carats apiece. The earrings are designed for pierced ears and outfitted with posts and locking backs. Rounding out the rather spectacular diamond offering, each backing is decorated with a halo of sparkling round brilliant-cut diamonds, a lovely detail reserved for the wearer that will make putting on the earrings extra special every time.
It is difficult to see that these significant studs are composed of much smaller cut-cornered square emerald cuts placed in the centers. They are surrounded by 8 meticulously matched step-cut diamond halos that fit together like puzzle pieces. Each of the 9-piece studs is mounted in a basket setting, the corners held with 8 strategically well-placed talon-shaped prongs. The shape of the prongs provides an added dash of luxury to the overall look. Talon claws or prongs are crafted based on the appearance of the talons of a bird of prey. They add a certain flair as they are typically used for large gemstones.
If these studs were just one whole gem per ear, they would be exponentially more costly and rare than these clever trompe l’oeil composites. When setting gems in Art Deco jewelry of the 1920s and 1930s, a trompe l’oeil convention was popularly used as an effective optical illusion to make diamonds look larger or make rounds look square. The artful illusion was in the setting, generally, a larger custom-shaped bezel in which rounds were pavé-set; however, not in the composite placement of the stones. Therefore, the expert level of stone setting in these studs is a nod and variation of this design sensibility. Additionally, the earrings reference techniques from the Art Deco period, where custom geometric-cut gemstones were tightly set against one another to create a lush, jeweled...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Spectra Fine Jewelry Jewelry & Watches
MaterialsDiamond, 18k Gold, White Gold