1880s Victorian Natural Pearl Cut Steel 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 stunning pair of coral and diamond earrings from the Victorian (ca1880) era! These beautiful dangling earrings are crafted in 15kt gold and topped in sterling silver. Each earring ...

A wonderful pair of hanging coral earrings from the Victorian (ca1880s) era! Crafted in 14kt yellow gold these beautiful earrings feature smoothly-polished and hand-carved salmon...

Absolutely stunning citrine and diamond earrings from the Victorian (ca1880) era! These wonderful earrings are made of 14kt yellow gold and are accented with large citrines at their ...

A one-of-a-kind set of Victorian (ca1880s) jewelry! This very unique set includes a pendant, a pair of dangling earrings, and two buttons. The pendant and earrings are crafted in 18k...

An absolutely exquisite and unusual pair of diamond heart and arrow earrings from the Victorian (ca1880) era! This striking piece, which is crafted in 12kt yellow gold depicts a diam...

Victorian Cut Steel Tassel Earrings from the 19th Century. Tiny cut steel beads are strung into twists under a cut steel faceted cap. Ear wires lat...

Antique 10k gold victorian rose cut earrings centered with large rose cut diamonds flanked with smaller diamonds with total estimate weight of 5 carats back foiled earrings...

Rare Victorian Cut Steel Earrings in graduated hoop motifs with fringed edges. Exceptional quality, scale and design in original condition with scr...

Antique earrings centered with 2 old mine cut diamonds estimate weight of 0.30 ct in total made of gold topped with silver prongs dates back to europe 19th century earrings lenght 1 cm

Antique rose cut diamond earrings in floral design with large rose cut diamonds with a total estimate diamond weight of 11 carats cen...

Circa 1880s High Style Victorian, Etruscan Revival Yellow Gold Earrings, measuring 2 3/4 inches in length X 3/4 inch wide. Showing some signs of 100 years of Patina and Tarnish and a...