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Earrings
English
1750–1800
Object Place: England
Medium/Technique
Gold metal and coque de perle
Dimensions
7 x 4.5 x 2.3 cm (2 3/4 x 1 3/4 x 7/8 in.)
Credit Line
The Elizabeth Day McCormick Collection
Accession Number43.2122a-b
NOT ON VIEW
ClassificationsJewelry / Adornment – Earrings, flares, plugs, studs
DescriptionThese girandole style earrings made from coque de perle--pearl-like stones that are cut from the Indian nautilus shell and are similar to blister pearls. These pearls are likely from India but were made in England, possibly for the colonial American market. These would be worn during the day, given that they do not include a precious stone. The interesting clasp was specially designed for this style of earring--the evening version was considerably heavy--the fitting was hinged and inserted from the back of a pierced earlobe. The curved portion allowed for a ribbon to be inserted and secured to the hair both to be fashionable and to alleviate some of the weight from the earlobe.