Art Deco Sterling Silver, French Paste & Faux Onyx Earrings

French paste is a Vintage jewelry term used to describe the practice of using faceted cut glass, cut in the shape of a real gemstone, instead of using real gems. This process, which was developed in the 1700's, created the look of a sparkling gemstone or diamond but cost much less than real stones.

Wonderful French paste and faux onyx earrings from the Art Deco (ca1920) era! These lovely earrings are great representation of how beautiful paste jewelry can be and have a great Deco look. The earrings, which are made of sterling silver, appear to have been converted from screwbacks to modern 14kt gold wires. They begin with a sterling flower-like surmount with French paste stones surrounding a single square faux onyx stone. Dangling from the surmount is a sterling bar that has 4 bezel set past stones set within it and connects to the final tear drop link. This link is wonderfully decorated and covered with a design of French paste stones a faux onyx. The sterling tear drop shape is open in the center and detailed with milgraining. At the very bottom of each earring is a single "onyx" stone. All of the stones have a closed back and are very white and sparkly. Each earring is marked "935" and "KP". They are simply marvelous earrings and would look great worn for a dressy occasion!

Measurements: Each earring hangs approximately 2 3/8" long at the longest point and is 3/8" at the widest point.

Condition: The overall condition of the earrings is excellent. There is no apparent damage to the silver or gold wires and all of the paste and onyx stones are intact.