Color Change - Victorian English Gold Fill Simulated Alexandrite Dangly Earrings (VICE050)

Color Change - Victorian English Gold Fill Simulated Alexandrite Dangly Earrings (VICE050)

$295.00

Color Change - Victorian English Gold Fill Simulated Alexandrite Dangly Earrings. These eye-catching earrings are crafted from Gold fill. The French lever backs are gold plated. Theses earrings feature 2 round cut faceted simulated alexandrite, and Victorian era styling, A pair of Victorian earrings with very large "alexandrite" stones that shift from grayish teal to violet depending on the lighting conditions. The mountings are beautifully handmade, featuring a clawed bezel and bobble decoration (a characteristic sometimes seen in ancient jewelry. Alexandrite was discovered in Russia in the 19th century and was prized for color-changing properties and scarcity. In the early 20th century a convincing simulant was invented by growing synthetic sapphires and lacing them with vanadium, which produces the color changing effect. The French leaver backs are a later addition, which are in perfect working order. These Victorian beauties, would be a great addition to any antique jewelry collection.

History: Alexandrite was discovered in 1830 in the Ural Mountains of Russia and named after Csar Alexander II. The original locality for alexandrite is Russia, however, fine gems have also been found in Brazil, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Madagascar, Zimbabwe, India, and Burma.

Technically, there's no difference in the composition of natural and artificial alexandrites. They are both made of the same elements - beryllium aluminium oxide, which explains why they have a similar texture, durability, and other characteristics.

Most gemstones described as synthetic alexandrite are actually simulated alexandrite: Synthetic corundum laced with vanadium to produce the color change. This alexandrite-like sapphire material has been known for around 100 years.

The history of gold-filled jewellery traces back to early 19th century England, where this technique was patented to create semi-precious and better-quality custom jewellery during the Victorian Era.

In the history of the United Kingdom and the British Empire, the Victorian era was the reign of Queen Victoria, from 20 June 1837 until her death on 22 January 1901. Slightly different definitions are sometimes used.

Measurements: Earrings 31.50 mm x 13.00 mm

Stone Size: Alexandrite (Simulated) 10.00 carats

Weight: 4.00 grams

Condition: Good Note: One of the alexandrite gemstones has a chipped back. However the chip does not take away the beauty of the earrings.

Origin: England

Date: Circa 1900