Exploring the Beauty of Textured Gold

Polished, shiny gold is the way that we are most familiar with the metal. It is the material that contemporary jewelers like to use for ring settings and similar jewels. However, did you know that texturing gold adds an entirely new level of interest to the designs of the pieces? Vintage jewelry proves that artisans have known about these techniques and used them for decades.

The Florentine finish, for example, is little more than a combination of crosshatches. The trick to the procedure is to start the design at an angle and then maintain it for the remainder of the work. These Dolan & Bullock 14k yellow gold domed Florentine cuff links are excellent examples of the technique. Because of the 19mm by 18mm surface, the crosshatch work is very easy to see. A cushion-shaped top adds a slight elevation.

In other pieces, artisans have applied the finish to only a portion of the jewel; the remainder of the gold is polished, which helps the finish to stand out even more. Great examples are these 18k yellow gold knot earrings with a 3D presentation. They combine the Florentine finish technique with polished edges that combine for an aesthetically outstanding look. These earrings come from the 1950s and are clearly handmade. 

Another texturing method is hammering. The expert application of a small hammer tool results in the creation of eye-catching dimples that combine to leave a distinct pattern. Look closely at this Henry Dunay hammered 18k yellow gold ring. The dimpling is perfectly controlled for an attractive display. At the center sits a half-cylinder ruby weighing in at 7.0cts. The selection of a translucent gem with slight inclusions perfectly augments the dimpling.

For a more pronounced look, artisans have also used polish in combination with hammering. These Henry Dunay clip post 18k yellow gold earrings feature a soft triangular shape with noticeable dimpling showing off a high polish.

For a more matte finish that does not necessarily offer highly visible design lines or dimples, consider the purchase of a brushed gold piece. These 14k rose gold, brushed finish hoop earrings show off a soft exterior. A ribbed presentation adds visual definition to the 9.09mm wide hoops. In some cases, artisans have combined careful working of the gold with a brushed finish to create a look that imitates nature.

These 14k yellow gold bamboo hoop earrings mirror the appearance of the plant perfectly. The fine lines of the bamboo imitation combine with the brushed finish of the gold to create the illusion.

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 textured gold 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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