MARSH & CO. 1950s Blackened Steel and Gold Clip Earrings

Berlin iron jewelry was produced in Germany by the Berlin Royal Foundry beginning in 1804. Previously, iron jewelry had been worn primarily during periods of mourning due to the dark color of its black lacquer finish. However, it reached a high point of popularity between 1813 and 1830. To fund the War of Liberation against Napolean, citizens were asked to donate their precious gold in exchange for iron jewelry. The Berlin iron jewelry was sometimes inscribed with a portrait of Frederick William III of Prussia, or with the words "Gold gab ich für Eisen" (meaning "I gave gold for iron") or "Für das Wohl des Vaterlands" ("For the welfare of our country/fatherland"). Almost overnight, Berlin iron jewelry became a symbol of patriotism. Its beautiful fabrication and lacy appearance gave it widespread appeal, eventually reaching popularity in numerous European countries. Authentic Berlin iron jewelry is now very rare, and well-preserved pieces have become very collectible! Cut steel jewelry originated in England in the 17th century and subsequently spread throughout Europe, eventually becoming a popular style of jewelry worn by members of high society during the Victorian era. Made of polished faceted steel studs, the pieces were cut by hand and then assembled and riveted onto a metal back. The faceted steel elements give this type of jewelry a subtle, metallic glitter that resembles cut gemstones. Motifs varied from the simple to the sublime, with multiple layers and densely packed studs. The time-consuming process and the artistry required to create cut steel jewelry made it very valuable and highly sought-after during the Victorian age, particularly to wear during the stage of "secondary mourning." Produced up until the turn of the 19th century, antique cut steel jewelry is now highly collectible. An exceptional Berlin iron and cut steel necklace and earring set from the Georgian (ca1804) era! Crafted in fine Berlin ironwork with delicate cut steel studs and mirrored steel plaques throughout, this well-preserved ensemble is an incredible work of art. The ornate necklace adorns various sized iron-backed links topped with mirrored steel plaques, each one connected together by intricate, lacy Berlin ironwork. The largest link rests at the center, and features an oval-shaped mirrored steel plaque on the front that is adorns a raised iron cameo...

A unique pair of "sputnik" ring from the Vintage (ca1950s) era! Crafted in 18k yellow gold, these earrings feature bezel set multi-colored stones. The stones are arranged in a "sunbu...

A beautiful pair of Estate earrings from designer Vahe Naltchayan! Crafted in 18k yellow gold, each earring features a bezel set carnelian intaglio. The oval-shaped carnelian stones ...

A lovely pair of Tiffany & Co. pearl earrings from the Vintage (ca1960s) era! Crafted in 18k vibrant yellow gold, each earring features a large pearl held within a smooth and simple ...

1950s Aquamarine and Diamond white gold clip-on earrings. What charming earrings. These Aquamarine and Diamond White Gold Clip-On Earrings were made in the 1950's They are simple ...

1950s Bow Leaf yellow gold clip-on earrings. The Bow Leaf Yellow Gold Clip-On earrings were made in the 1950s. Beautifully designed these earrings show th...

Original 1950s aurora borealis rhinestone crystal earrings by Schoffel & Co. An innovative design produced around 1955 after the invention by a fellow Austrian crystal manufacturer, Daniel Swarovski, who began coating crystals with a special iridescent sheen. These clip on earrings are in a diamond shaped array of round and baguette-shaped stones. In very good vintage condition with very light surface wear to the coating on some of the crystals. Marked with the distinctive crown to the reverse. Schoffel & Co is one of the best known of the Austrian costume jewellery...

1950s clip-on earrings with a flower motif in 18 kt yellow gold. The flowers are composed of six gadrooned petals and the pistil is formed of 7 diamonds set in white gold and 4 stems...