DATE: Mid Century, c.1950

Elegant pearl and diamond earrings dating from the mid 20th century, circa 1950. The simple three-lobed halo border is reminiscent of flower petals - highly stylised, of course - or indeed the (particularly interesting) Borromean rings. They're crafted in 18 karat white gold with lever backs, diamond accents, and central 8mm pearls.

Borromean rings were used in the coat of arms of the aristocratic Borromeo family in Northern Italy (hence the name), designed to be seen as a symbol of strength and unity. Imagine three interlinked circles, aka a Brunnian link. Any two of the rings, taken as a pair, are not "linked"; they simply overlie one another. The third ring, however, links them to the object as a whole, which itself can't be separated without breaking a ring. Clever, simple, powerful.

STONES 

Cultured Pearls - 8mm diameter

Single Cut Diamonds

MEASUREMENTS 

1.4mm width

WEIGHT 

7.6g (pair)

MARKS 

French import marks (18k gold)

CONDITION 

Excellent