Color Play - Vintage Sterling Silver Opal & Diamond Stud Earrings (EE196)

Color Play - Vintage Sterling Silver Opal & Diamond Stud Earrings . These gorgeous earrings are crafted from sterling silver, hallmarked 925 for sterling. Featuring two natural round cabochon opal gemstones, 20 natural rose cut diamonds, Victorian styling , and quality craftsmanship.  These lovely earrings are expertly claw-set with beautiful colorful opal gemstones, surrounded by a halo of rose cut diamonds. The opals display an array of color, in different light intensities. The diamonds sparkle beautifully, which offset the ethereal gemstones perfectly.  The earrings exhibit a wonderful patina, giving them character. This Vintage Victorian Revival earrings look stunning when worn, truly a perfect gift or addition to any  jewelry collection.

History: Diamond History The earliest diamonds were found in India in 4th century BC, although the youngest of these deposits were formed 900 million years ago. A majority of these early stones were transported along the network of trade routes that connected India and China, commonly known as the Silk Road.

The rose cut originated in the 1500's and was commonly used through the Georgian and Victorian eras. Like other antique diamond cuts, they were cut by hand and meant to dazzle under candlelight. Their large, wide facets performed exquisitely in low light conditions.

With anywhere from 3 to 24 facets, a Rose Cut Diamond resembles the shape of a rose bud. ... In general, they are flat at the bottom and creating a larger surface area for the stone's brilliance. One of the most striking characteristics of a Rose Cut Diamond is it's flat base.

Note: You cannot look at rose cut diamond jewelry factually with a recut formula in mind, its value is object driven. Rose cuts are a greater challenge in estimating weight once they have been mounted (especially if they are closed back). These rose cut diamonds are hand cut, which makes them so special. 

The ancient Greeks believed opals gave their owners the gift of prophecy and guarded them from disease. Europeans have long considered the gem a symbol of hope, purity, and truth. Opal is considered an October birthstone. 

A Short History of Ethiopian Opal. Precious opal mined in Ethiopia began entering the gem and jewelry market in 1994. This opal originated from a discovery made in the Menz Gishe District in the northern part of the Shewa Province. Opal from this area occurs in a wide range of body colors.

These hand-made earrings are made in the manner of Georgian/Victorian jewelry.   White gold was not invented so silver was used to set off the gemstones. This piece is made in a similar way to those antique pieces.

Cleaning:  Do not immerse in liquid.   To clean gently wipe with soft damp cloth (not saturated) with water only. Pat dry immediately with soft dry cloth. 

Measurements:  Earrings : 12.00 mm x 12.00 mm 

Stone Size: Diamonds (Rose cut diamond weight is approximate) .90 carats  Opal 3.15 carats 

Weight: 3.70 grams 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: : South Asia      

Date: Circa 1990