How do I care for antique paste earrings?

Keep antique paste earrings away from water and ultrasonic cleaning liquids because moisture damages the fragile foils hidden behind the glass. Clean them gently with a dry microfiber cloth. Store each pair separately in a lined box to prevent the metal and glass from scratching against other items in your collection.

Can antique paste earrings be worn daily?

These historical pieces require gentle handling due to their age and delicate construction. Reserve them for occasional wear rather than daily use to protect the old mounts and fastenings. Take care when putting them on or removing them, particularly with screwback mechanisms and antique wire hooks, to avoid putting strain on the joints.

How can I tell Georgian paste from Victorian paste?

Georgian paste earrings often feature closed-backed collet settings with foil linings and occasional black dot inclusions to imitate deep mine-cut diamonds. The gold used in this era frequently has a high, warm rose hue. Victorian pieces show greater variety, incorporating pinchbeck, silver-topped gold, and varied stone cuts like cushion or baguette shapes. Fastenings also evolved during the Victorian age to include screwback fittings.

What does silver-topped gold mean?

Silver-topped gold is a traditional manufacturing technique where a thin layer of silver is soldered over a gold backing. Jewellers used this method because silver provided a bright, white surface that complemented white stones without darkening. The underlying gold offered structural strength and prevented the metal from staining clothing or skin with tarnish.