Joden Girl
Baubles, Bling and Fun Things
Basic black. Often used to represent darkness – it is the complete absorption of light. The symbolic color of authority, it is often worn by judges, magistrates and clergy. For hundreds of years, black has been the characteristic color for funerals and mourning. This was never more apparent than during Victoria’s 40-yearlong bereavement after the death of her soulmate and husband, Albert. Not only did she dawn dark dresses, veils and accessories – she decreed that her subjects must do the same. Even her jewelry reflected the depths of her grief – every piece was made of gold, black enamel and gemstones like onyx like these earrings.
Made from 14-karat yellow gold, the style of these Victorian chandelier earrings is just as relevant today as it was in the late 19th century. A perfectly round bezel set onyx center is wreathed by a series of matching parallelogram-shaped onyx. Each stone is encased within a golden frame. The top edge of the metal features a delicate beaded edge called milgrain. Resembling a starburst or sunflower, this portion of the earring is suspended from softly rounded kidney-shaped wires. A pair of tiny round links have been utilized to attach a small garland to the base of the circular spray. It’s hinged, allowing for ease of movement.
Seven additional lozenge-shaped onyx form the crescent moon-shaped swag. These opaque gems graduate slightly in size, with the largest one in the middle. Small beads of gold are situated between each one, mimicking the design of the top. The final detail is a singular elongated kite-shaped onyx that dangles from the center of the garland. Swaying gently with every turn of your head, these mourning earrings offer face-framing elegance at its finest. User-friendly, these beauties are easy to wear and measure just under two inches from top to bottom. Distinctly Victorian, but perfect for 2023 – these ever-chic earrings are available on our website for just $975.00.
“You can go to a museum and look, or come to us and touch.”
Written by Carrie Martin
Photos by Dana Jerpe
