45 mm twisted yellow gold hoop earrings
At Ur, in Mesopotamia, the archaeologist Leonard Woolley unearthed, in 1928 and 1929, gold earrings dating back some 4,500 years – crescent-shaped pieces formed from two sheets of metal and found in pairs on either side of the skull. This pair of twisted hoop earrings follows the same design principle, crafted in 18-carat yellow gold with a fineness of 750 parts per thousand. Although unsigned, each earring features a fineness mark and a maker’s cartouche. The wire, twisted into a regular helix, forms a circle with an outer diameter of 45 mm – a large hoop size that stands out from both the side and the front.
Architecture and jewellery craftsmanship
The metal is twisted around the entire circumference, with a regular pitch that alternates between polished ridges and hollows. This relief creates multiple edges, each of which catches the light with the slightest movement of the head, whereas a smooth hoop earring produces only a continuous reflection. The hoop remains open. One end is closed by a rounded cap, whilst the other features a straight post that passes through the earlobe before being secured by a yellow gold butterfly clasp. The mirror-polished finish covers the entire surface, right down to the base of the coils. Despite their diameter, these hoop earrings remain light on the ear – a crucial factor for a pair of this size.
Why choose this pair of second-hand hoop earrings
A large 18-carat gold hoop requires a great deal of twisting, shaping and polishing, which is largely reflected in the price of a new piece. Second-hand, the same material and construction can be obtained for a fraction of the price, in a piece of jewellery that has already been inspected by a jeweller. The twisted design adds texture where standard smooth hoop earrings remain flat in the light. It can be worn on its own, with a simple outfit, or alongside a yellow gold chain or bangle.
Contents and condition
The two hoop earrings and their two clasps have been polished and inspected by our artisan jeweller. The polish is uniform across each hoop, with no visible scratches or deformities, and both hoops retain an identical circular shape. Each clasp bears the 750 hallmark and a manufacturer’s mark. The pair is supplied in a The Swiss Collector box.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of these hoop 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 – Polished and inspected by our jeweller, who has restored it to its original lustre.
