victorian carved onyx and 14k gold dangle earrings

A lovely pair of antique earrings with a striking look. A Victorian era round onyx cabochon, measuring 8 mm round, is seen with starburst engravings throughout the dome. Hanging from a 14k rosy-yellow gold hook, they movement with the wearer.

Measuring 0.75 inches tall, the French wire hook that was added at a later date. They have chic, modern feel even though they were made more than 120 years ago.

During Queen Victoria's long reign, her beloved husband Albert passed away throwing her into an 80 year mourning period in which she exclusively wore black. This created a new wave in the way people dressed, extending to jewelry, where onyx and jet were often used to create pieces like this.