A rare and impressive pair of mid 18th-century Iberian emerald earrings, delicately crafted in gold and set with Colombian emeralds in table-cut settings. These jewels epitomise the Iberian taste of the period.

Each earring is composed of three articulated sections: a domed upper cluster, a central bow set with table-cut emeralds, and a lower drop with further emeralds in scrolling surrounds. The construction allows for graceful movement when worn. The central bow motif is especially significant, reflecting the ribbon-inspired ornament fashionable across Europe in the late Baroque and Rococo periods.

The emeralds display the saturated green associated with Colombian sources, controlled at the time by Spanish colonial interests in South America. Each gem is set in box-shaped table-cut mounts.

The backs of the domed clusters are of hollow construction, smooth and rounded, and stamped with hallmarks including an FE / RE monogram, likely a regional Spanish or Catalan control mark. The earrings retain their traditional fishhook (forward-facing) clasps, a distinctive feature of Iberian earrings of the 18th century.

Date: c.1750

Origin: Spain or Catalonia

Materials: 18k gold (tested); Colombian emeralds (table-cut)

Dimensions: 6 x 2.5 cm

Weight: 12 g (pair)

Construction: Three-part articulated; theoretically convertible to day/night earrings by removing the top section

Condition: Excellent; very minor wear commensurate with age, one possible later emerald replacement.

Context: Earrings of this type formed part of the rich Iberian tradition of gem-set adornment, designed to emphasise movement and colour against the wearer’s face. Comparable examples can be found in museum and private collections, and in specialist dealers’ archives, where they are described as “pendeloque” style. They represent both high craftsmanship and cultural exchange, with Colombian emeralds brought to Spain via transatlantic trade.

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