Items Similar to Georgian Berlin Iron and Mirrored Cut Steel Necklace and Earring Set
Want more images or videos?
Request additional images or videos from the seller
1 of 10
Georgian Berlin Iron and Mirrored Cut Steel Necklace and Earring Set
About the Item
Berlin iron jewelry was produced in Germany by the Berlin Royal Foundry beginning in 1804. Previously, iron jewelry had been worn primarily during periods of mourning due to the dark color of its black lacquer finish. However, it reached a high point of popularity between 1813 and 1830. To fund the War of Liberation against Napolean, citizens were asked to donate their precious gold in exchange for iron jewelry. The Berlin iron jewelry was sometimes inscribed with a portrait of Frederick William III of Prussia, or with the words "Gold gab ich für Eisen" (meaning "I gave gold for iron") or "Für das Wohl des Vaterlands" ("For the welfare of our country/fatherland"). Almost overnight, Berlin iron jewelry became a symbol of patriotism. Its beautiful fabrication and lacy appearance gave it widespread appeal, eventually reaching popularity in numerous European countries. Authentic Berlin iron jewelry is now very rare, and well-preserved pieces have become very collectible!
Cut steel jewelry originated in England in the 17th century and subsequently spread throughout Europe, eventually becoming a popular style of jewelry worn by members of high society during the Victorian era. Made of polished faceted steel studs, the pieces were cut by hand and then assembled and riveted onto a metal back. The faceted steel elements give this type of jewelry a subtle, metallic glitter that resembles cut gemstones. Motifs varied from the simple to the sublime, with multiple layers and densely packed studs. The time-consuming process and the artistry required to create cut steel jewelry made it very valuable and highly sought-after during the Victorian age, particularly to wear during the stage of "secondary mourning." Produced up until the turn of the 19th century, antique cut steel jewelry is now highly collectible.
An exceptional Berlin iron and cut steel necklace and earring set from the Georgian (ca1804) era! Crafted in fine Berlin ironwork with delicate cut steel studs and mirrored steel plaques throughout, this well-preserved ensemble is an incredible work of art. The ornate necklace adorns various sized iron-backed links topped with mirrored steel plaques, each one connected together by intricate, lacy Berlin ironwork. The largest link rests at the center, and features an oval-shaped mirrored steel plaque on the front that is adorns a raised iron cameo on the surface. The incredibly detailed image features a lovely winged cherub that is kneeling down and embracing a rooster that appears to bow his head into the embrace. The emotional image is surrounded by gorgeous swirled wirework and cut steel studs, while three smaller complimentary plaques dangle freely from the base. Various geometrically shaped pairs of iron-backed links topped with mirrored plaques grace the remainder of the necklace, each one surrounded by additional lacy wirework and eye-catching steel studs. Embellishing the surface of each mirror are wonderful floral and leafy motifs, adding a lovely feminine touch to the incredibly detailed design. Fastening the necklace together is a push clasp at the back, featuring with an oval-shaped mirrored plaque decorated with a pair of artichoke motifs.
The complimentary earrings display a fabulous dangling design and feature an elongated triangular-shaped mirrored plaque hanging from a gorgeous ironwork topper. The surface is graced with a swirled vine motif that lines the center, and a single cut steel stud adorns the base. Similar to the necklace, the entire plaque is surrounded by wonderful ornate Berlin ironwork. A single, cut steel stud rests at the center of the surmount, and is surrounded by lovely loops of ironwork, creating a wonderful floral appearance. Each surmount is attached to European style rose gold earring wires that have a hinged lever back, fastening in the front. When worn, they dangle with exceptional movement, framing the face beautifully.
Throughout the ensemble, the cut steel studs and mirrored steel plaques reflect the light beautifully with every turn, and perfectly contrast with the rich, black intricate Berlin ironwork. Whether worn separately or as a set, this rare Berlin iron and cut steel ensemble makes a magnificent statement, and is perfect for the serious antique jewelry collector!
Measurements: The necklace measures approximately 16.25" long. The central pendant and dangling links hang about 2 3/4" long, approximately 1 7/8" wide and 1/8" thick. Each earring hangs approximately 2 1/2" long, about 5/8" wide, and 1/8" thick.
Condition: The overall condition of the two piece jewelry set is excellent. Besides normal surface wear, there is no apparent damage to the Berlin ironwork itself. The surface of some of the mirrored plaques shows signs of minor fading, but due to the intricate nature of the entire piece, it is hardly noticeable when worn. It appears that some of the studs have been replaced at some point with similar looking stones, however, due to the number of studs and their placement, the replaced studs are hardly noticeable when worn. The necklace clasp fastens securely and is in good working condition. The hinged European earring wires are secure and in good working condition.
- Metal:
- Sold As:Set of 2
- Style:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:circa 1804
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. The overall condition of the two piece jewelry set is excellent. Please refer to the product description for further comments regarding the condition of the set.
- Seller Location:Narberth, PA
- Reference Number:
About the Seller
5.0
Recognized Seller
These prestigious sellers are industry leaders and represent the highest echelon for item quality and design.
Established in 1988
1stDibs seller since 2012
415 sales on 1stDibs
Typical response time: 3 hours
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Ships From: Narberth, PA
- Return PolicyA return for this item may be initiated within 7 days of delivery.
More From This SellerView All
- Exceptional Georgian Berlin Iron Link NecklaceLocated in Narberth, PABerlin iron jewelry was produced in Germany by the Berlin Royal Foundry beginning in 1804. Previously, iron jewelry had primarily been worn in periods of mourning due to its dark color. However, it reached a high point of popularity between 1813 and 1819. To fund the War of Liberation against Napolean, citizens were asked to donate their precious gold in exchange for iron jewelry, which was sometimes inscribed with a portrait of Frederick William III of Prussia or the words "Gold gab ich für Eisen...Category
Antique 1810s German Georgian Link Necklaces
MaterialsBerlin Iron
- Georgian Drippy Rose Cut Diamond EarringsLocated in Narberth, PAAn exquisite pair of drippy chandelier earrings from the Georgian era (ca1830)! These incredible earrings are made of silver-topped gold and encrusted with sparkling old Rose Cut dia...Category
Antique 1830s Georgian Chandelier Earrings
MaterialsDiamond
- Georgian Important Rose Cut Diamond Teardrop EarringsLocated in Narberth, PAAn absolutely superb pair of diamond earrings from the Georgian (1820s) era! These incredible earrings are crafted in sterling silver-topped 18kt yellow gold and feature a sparkling ...Category
Antique 1880s Unknown Georgian Dangle Earrings
MaterialsDiamond, 18k Gold, Sterling Silver
- Georgian Chrysoberyl EarringsLocated in Narberth, PAChrysoberyl is a "little secret" gemstone. One of the most brilliant gems, it has a high degree of fire and almost rivals that of diamonds. Anxious to access the wealth of the new wo...Category
Antique 1830s Georgian Dangle Earrings
MaterialsChrysoberyl, Sterling Silver
- Georgian Rose Cut Diamond Pin & Necklace SetLocated in Narberth, PAA truly exceptional French pin and necklace set from the Georgian (ca1780) era! Made of silver and old Rose Cut diamonds, this well-preserved piece is absolutely gorgeous. Much of Ge...Category
Antique Early 19th Century French Georgian Drop Necklaces
MaterialsDiamond, Sterling Silver
- Georgian Sterling/18kt Long Rose Cut Diamond Earrings 2ctwLocated in Narberth, PAA striking pair of earrings from the Georgian (ca1750s) era! Crafted in sterling silver, these heavily patinaed earrings have an elaborate closed-back design encrusted with glinting ...Category
Antique 1750s Unknown Georgian Dangle Earrings
MaterialsDiamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver
You May Also Like
- Antique Georgian1820s Early Cut Steel NecklaceLocated in Stamford, CTA crowning glory of design, this cut steel necklace shimmers like diamonds, in available light as it did originally in the early 1800's. Serves dressy occasions or denim shirts and b...Category
Antique Early 18th Century British George IV Link Necklaces
MaterialsCut Steel
- Georgian Cut Steel NecklaceLocated in Chipping Campden, GBAbsolutely superb example of Georgian cut steel. The way it sparkles and catches the light is just beautiful. This necklace sits perfectly flat and ...Category
Antique 1710s British Georgian More Necklaces
MaterialsCut Steel
- 18k Turquoise, Amethyst and Diamond Necklace and Earring SetBy D'Deco JewelsLocated in New York, NYA 18k Turquoise, Amethyst and Diamond Necklace and Earring Set. Necklace: 64.28 grams Earrings: 16.80 grams Total Weight: 80.99 grams Turquoise: 104.55 carats Amethyst: 31.85 cara...Category
21st Century and Contemporary Dangle Earrings
MaterialsAmethyst, Diamond, Turquoise, 18k Gold
- Diamond Necklace & Door Knocker Earrings SetLocated in New York, NYDiamond Necklace & Door Knocker Earrings Set, Circa 1970 Round cut diamonds approximately 28.00 cts in the necklace. Matching earrings consisting of 2 round diamonds approximately...Category
Vintage 1970s Link Necklaces
MaterialsDiamond, 18k Gold
- Diamond 3 Peice Set Necklace Earring and Ring 18 Karat White GoldLocated in Brooklyn, NYMagnificent Diamond set 18k White Gold Fancy Necklace 23.45 carat 70 grams 16' Inch Fancy Dangling Earrings 4.95 carat 18 grams Fancy Ring 2.23...Category
2010s Link Necklaces
MaterialsDiamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
- Buccellati Vintage 18k Gold Necklace Earrings Set Diamond TourmalineBy BuccellatiLocated in Beverly Hills, CAExquisite set consisting of a necklace and a pair of earrings created by Buccellati in the 1960's. Made of yellow gold, features approximately 120 carats of cabochon green tourmaline...Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Link Necklaces
MaterialsDiamond, Tourmaline, 18k Gold
Recently Viewed
View AllMore Ways To Browse
Antique Jewellery Necklace Set
Antique Jewellery Collectors
Antique Jewelry Collectors
Georgian Jewellery Set
Georgian Rose Cut
Georgian Fine Jewelry
Antique Steel Jewelry
Antique Victorian Georgian Jewelry
Georgian Gold Necklace
Georgian Era Jewellery
Georgian Era Jewelry
Antique Georgian Necklace
Antique Georgian Necklace Jewelry
Black Necklace And Earrings Set
Rare Georgian Jewelry
Plaque Necklace
Statement Necklace And Earring Set
Wing Necklace