The black and white of this pair
These 18-carat white gold earrings play on a contrast created by nature. Black onyx and white chalcedony belong to the same family, that of microcrystalline quartz, and chalcedony takes its name from Chalcedon, an ancient Greek city on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus. At the top, a domed, polished onyx cabochon, weighing approximately 1.40 carats per earring, rests on the earlobe. At the bottom, a teardrop-shaped piece of milky chalcedony, weighing approximately 11.50 carats, is set within a cage pavé-set with diamonds. As a second-hand, unsigned piece, its value is judged by its craftsmanship and the approximately 1.45 carats of diamonds.
Architecture and jewellery craftsmanship
Each earring begins with a round stud on which the black cabochon, set in a closed setting, is surrounded by a halo of brilliant-cut diamonds set in a grain setting. Beneath, a brilliant-cut diamond of approximately 0.10 carats, set in a closed setting, articulates the pendant and gives it its movement. Next comes the cage, formed of two teardrop-shaped arches crossed at right angles and pavé-set on their visible sides. It holds the chalcedony without obscuring it, allowing light to glide across its polished surface. The halo and cage together feature 80 diamonds per earring, totalling 160 stones weighing approximately 1.25 carats for the pair. The openwork, polished reverse side lends the piece a sense of lightness. Each earring measures approximately 5 cm and is designed to be worn in pierced ears, with a post and a clasp.
Why choose these second-hand earrings
A pavé setting of 160 stones and a cage assembled hoop by hoop require long hours of work at the workbench, the full cost of which is reflected in the price of a new piece. On the second-hand market, this craftsmanship – comprising approximately 1.45 carats of diamonds and an 18-carat gold setting – is available for a fraction of that cost. Black and white remains a classic combination in jewellery, equally at home with an evening gown or a white shirt. With every movement of the head, the chalcedony droplet sways within its cage and casts a soft glow beneath the sparkle of the pavé setting.
Contents and condition
Both earrings have been polished and inspected by our master jeweller prior to sale. In the absence of a legible hallmark, the 18-carat gold content has been confirmed by testing. The pair is supplied with its two 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.
