Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Etruscan Gold Jewelry is Hotter Than Ever

The Etrusci, a culture that thrived in the area we know today as Tuscany, suffered the fate of so many other societies: it experienced assimilation by the Roman Empire right around 400 BC. Gradually, the Etruscan language, art and culture disappeared. Etruscan jewelry that has survived the ages features heavy gold objects that show off granulation as a major decorative technique. Geometric shapes and repeating patterns were a favorite. Religious motifs included depictions of the sun and moon. This jewelry style found a revival during the Victorian era when the fascination with ancient civilizations reached a fever pitch. Examples abound.

Etruscan Gold Dangle Earrings from the 1860s 



Artisans used 14k yellow gold to create these dangles. They measure 36.26mm in height and 15.36mm in width. Look closely, and you notice the use of granulation and motif repetition. The inside of the earrings is hollow, which makes them comfortable to wear without stretching the earlobes. The detail work involved in the creation of these pieces is truly masterful.

Gold Dangle Earrings from the 1930s 



This set of 14k yellow gold dangle earrings is an excellent example of Etruscan style element interpretation during the height of the Art Deco period. From top to bottom, the earrings measure 30.43mm. Their width is 12mm. The use of polished and matte gold creates attractive displays. Another telltale nod to the era is the use of domed arrangements.

Etruscan Revival Button Earrings with Diamonds 



Artisans used 18k yellow gold when creating these button earrings. They measure 13.62mm in diameter. At the center of each earring is a round, brilliant-cut diamond. Both stones weigh a combined .15cts. Ornamentation consists of granulation and motif repetition. If you only look at one piece of Etruscan jewelry today, make it this one.

Etruscan and Byzantine Themed Gold Bracelet with Gemstones 




When you enjoy the style of Byzantine creations but value the gold-working techniques the Etruscans adopted as their own, this bracelet gives you the opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds. It features 14k yellow gold, which jewelers worked in the shapes of intricately connected links. Three peridot and garnet cabochons, two citrines and garnets, as well as three blue topazes, make up the colorful gemstones. Thirty-six full-cut diamonds adds sparkle. These stones weigh in at a collective .40cts. Although the Byzantine influences are easier to see, the granulation and mix of polished and matte gold is a distinct nod to the Etruscan style.

At Peter Suchy Jewelers we are experts in all types of vintage, estate and antique jewelry. We hope you’ll stop by our showroom located at 1137 High Ridge Road in Stamford Connecticut.

Or, hop on over to our top-rated BigCommerce Store where you’ll find all the vintage Etruscan gold gemstone jewelry you see here. If you find a listing has ended, please email us at info@petersuchyjewelers.com as we may still have the item in stock.

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1 comment:

  1. wow very nice earring.thanks for sharing this post.
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