Old European Diamond Earrings Antique 22k Paisley
1900s diamond studs set with 1.8ctw Old European Cut diamonds in 22k.
A non circular pair of stud earrings is always nice to have, especially if its dainty proportions are maintained.
This is a pair of Straits Chinese earrings; such diamond studs are only found in this region. Its look is distinctly Peranakan, combining Victorian motifs in its Chinese gold work.
The paisley shape is a Victorian influence, so is its neat scalloped gallery (holding up under the diamonds). The era’s Chinese craftsmanship is seen is its thin, dappled sheaf of shared gold bezel.
Big or small, these shapely studs are hard to come by, the smaller they go, since many pairs were melted down as recent as a decade ago!
It is a pain for these studs style differently on different ears, which is a little secret about non round stud earrings.
A big part surrounding all the fuss over OEC diamonds lies in how the diamonds rest ‘afloat’, their domed surfaces appearing as if distinct droplets of diamonds.
You can discern this effect best by comparing a brilliant cut diamond with an OEC diamond – what you will notice is the OEC diamond appears ’rounder’. It’s an illusion of course, but that’s the ‘body’ you feel from an OEC diamond.
Only 1cm wide, this is a rare shaped pair in Straits jewellery. It wears prominently though it will work for lovely casual wear.
