Berlin Iron Gothic Revival Earrings, circa 1830

A pair of Berlin Iron Earrings that are feather weight and look like fine lace swirls. The earrings have a gold ear wire were made from a Geiss necklace that e to c.1820. During the Napoleonic wars, Germany asked their citizens to turn in their gold jewelry to support the war effort that depleted the treasury of Germany. Wealthy aristocrats did so and in return were rewarded with jewelry made of iron in intricate designs. The Berlin Iron jewelry became highly desired in Europe. The wealthy requested their ambassadors to bring home examples for them. Eventually Napoleon raided the foundries and stole molds for Berlin Iron. He commanded his jewelers to make iron jewels...

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...

Joseff Hollywood signature lacquered gold, Gothic Revival long hoop earclips. Excellent condition. Length 3.5", Width 1.75". Eugene Joseff produced wonderful costume jewelry worn by the stars of Hollywood, and was known for his Russian gold plated jewelry...

Victorian gold filled articulated long earrings in the Renaissance Revival taste. Gold filled metal has incised foliate motifs with two center hanging urns...

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Happy Birthday to these fabulous earrings that are 200 years old this year. Berlin Iron jewelry in excellent condition is rare, even in the museums of the world. The earrings are in ...