The heart cut: a style originating in royal courts
In 1562, Mary, Queen of Scots, sent Elizabeth I a ring set with a heart-shaped diamond – one of the earliest documented uses of this cut. These 18-carat white gold heart-shaped earrings reinterpret the motif in a stud style. Each is set with a heart-cut diamond weighing approximately 0.50 carats, giving an estimated total of 1 carat for the pair. The heart cut is one of the most demanding for the gem cutter, who must achieve two symmetrical lobes, a clean cleft and a well-defined point. This unsigned second-hand piece allows the stones to take centre stage, set with the point facing downwards.
Architecture and jewellery craftsmanship
Each diamond rests in an openwork white gold setting, held in place by three prongs. The two round prongs sit atop the lobes, whilst a V-shaped prong encircles the point – the most exposed part of a heart cut. The sides of the setting, open and accentuated by two horizontal bars, allow light to enter from the sides of the stone. The setting is reduced to the bare essentials, so that when worn, only the outline of the heart is visible, crisp and white against the grey metal. A smooth post and winged butterfly clasps secure the earrings.
Why these second-hand earrings
Pairing two heart-cut diamonds of the same size requires matching them lobe to lobe, a sorting process factored into the price of a new pair. Purchased second-hand, these studs feature 1 carat of diamonds set in an 18-carat white gold setting, for a price significantly lower than that of an equivalent design in a jewellery shop. The 3-prong setting, which is easy to check and tighten, makes them suitable for everyday wear, from the office to dinner.
Contents and condition
These heart-shaped earrings have been refurbished by our artisan jeweller, who has polished the metal and checked each prong. The white gold is 750 fineness. The pair comes with two butterfly clasps, in a The Swiss Collector box.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of these earrings, which are covered by a 12-month warranty. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand retailer, backed by the largest network of shops, we offer online booking for a fitting and in-store collection, or fully secure international delivery.
* Refurbished – The piece has been polished and inspected by our master jeweller, who has restored it to its original lustre.
