Vintage Italian 18K Yellow Gold 925 Sterling Silver Intaglio Venetian Glass Earrings

This is an incredible pair of vintage Italian intaglio venetian amber-colored glass earrings. They are marked 925, dating them after 1976. The yellow gold that surrounds the silver bezel is 18K (also marked); they are stamped Italy. They have the omega backs (stud accompanied by a clip), which work correctly. The hinges are firm and close all the way. The workmanship on these earrings is impressive. The venetian amber glass engravings show a seated or semi-reclining figure holding a staff and satchel. There are no scratches or cracks. The silver and gold have been cleaned, leaving a just a hint of the original patina. Another cleaning will brighten the silver more if desired. The earrings are about 1/2 inch in diameter.

The inspiration for such pieces of high quality is ancient Greek and Roman art and architecture, influenced by enlightenment ideals and excavations at Pompeii and Herculaneum. Italian jewelry makers, known for their high-quality craftsmanship, produced many pieces with a two-tone (gold and silver) design, which became popular during the neoclassical revival period of the 1980s. Pieces from this era often feature designs inspired by ancient Greek and Roman coins and cameos. Intaglio engraving is a technique that dates back to antiquity and is still in use at present. Patterns, designs or--more frequently--images are carved or engraved in glass or stones, leaving a hollow impression in the untouched background. This style of carving is the opposite of the cameo technique. These earrings would make a significant addition to any jewelry collection or could be gifted for any number of special occasions.

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