Can I wear antique diamond earrings every day?

Historic earrings require careful handling, particularly older silver-topped gold examples which are sensitive to moisture and harsh cosmetics. Regular checks by a jeweller ensure the stones remain secure in their handcrafted settings. Storing them in individual compartments prevents scratching against other pieces in your collection. Gentle cleaning with a soft brush and warm soapy water maintains their historic lustre without causing damage.

How do I identify Georgian earrings?

Georgian pieces often feature closed-back foil settings where a thin sheet of coloured metallic foil sits beneath the diamond to enhance its brilliance under candlelight. The hand-cut stones tend to have irregular, organic facet patterns unique to the period. The metalwork frequently employs low-carat gold or silver over gold, reflecting the manual techniques of the 18th and early 19th centuries. Closed backs mean these earrings should be kept away from water during cleaning.

What is the difference between old cut and rose cut?

Rose cut stones have a flat base and a single domed top covered in triangular facets, lacking the deep pavilion and table found in modern stones. Old cut diamonds, such as old mine cuts, possess both a crown and a pavilion with a distinct culet. While old cuts approximate the geometry of modern brilliant cuts with greater depth and sparkle, rose cuts offer a translucent, shimmering quality reminiscent of early candlelight jewellery.

Are French antique earrings marked differently?

Many continental pieces feature tiny punch marks known as hallmarks, such as the eagle head indicating French manufacture in 18ct gold during the 19th and 20th centuries. These tiny stamps appear on the exterior of the wire or mounting. British and other European items rely on distinct styles and construction methods rather than standardised stamps to indicate their period of origin.