Antique Late 18th Century Iberian Emerald Earrings

In the late 18th century, the pendeloque silhouette was the perfect companion to the sky-high hairstyles of the day. The towering, padded wigs weren’t just fashion statements...they were feats of engineering, and sometimes so large they made squeezing into a carriage an adventure. Long, swaying earrings like these provided the ideal visual counterweight, catching the light and adding a dash of sparkle to all that lofty drama. These late 18th century Iberian pendeloque earrings are an exquisite example of the cluster bow drop design that flourished in Spain and Portugal during the period. Set with vibrant emeralds, the rich green hue creates a striking contrast with the high karat gold. The top element contains a central emerald surrounded by a halo of smaller stones and adorned on top with a leafy lace-like pattern. Below, a flowing, emerald encrusted bow with delicate filigree suspends a pear shaped drop centered by a triangular truncated emerald and table-cut surround, finished with