Etruscan Acorn and Flower Stud Earrings

This acorn and flower design is inspired by a copy of an Etruscan gold necklace from Ruvo in the Naples Archaeological Museum, dating from around 1860. <br> <br>The original piece was discovered in the early 19th century and was one of the most famous jewels in the Naples Archaeological Museum, then known as the Museuo Borbonico. The copy was purchased in Italy by Martha Mary (Eustacia) Eustace Smith, an adventurous character both in her collecting and in her private life. When she gave the necklace to the British Museum in 1906 she recalled buying it 'about forty years ago'.

A pair of beautiful gold-plated stud earrings featuring details of acorns and flowers, inspired by a Victorian copy of an Etruscan necklace.

These delightful earrings have been hand-cast with 24 carat gold-plated lead-free pewter and include Swarovski crystal details. The acorn and flower elements are based on an extravagant copy of a gold Etruscan necklace housed in the Naples Archaeological Museum. The 19^th century Victorian copy was gifted to the British Museum by Martha Eustace Smith in 1906, and features rows of pendants shaped as acorns, palmettes, lotus flowers and heads of the satyr Silenus.

About Etruscan Jewellery:

Etruria was an ancient civilisation found in parts of Italy, including Tuscany, Latium and Umbria. It is believed to have started around 900 BC and continued until it was assimilated into the Roman Empire by about the 1^st century BC. Etruscan jewellery was heavily influenced by ancient Greek culture and design, and was considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity.

During the 19^th century many Etruscan tombs were opened, and the jewellery discovered inspired Victorian jewellers to design pieces in what became known as the Etruscan Revival Style.

A beguiling gift inspired by historic jewels.

 

Please note that for hygiene reasons, pierced earrings cannot be refunded.