The ability to use heat for shaping made tortoiseshell an ideal jewelry material in the 19th century. Plastic hadn't been developed yet, but tortoiseshell (from the Hawksbill and Loggerhead turtles) had been in use since ancient Rome. PSA: in the USA, it's illegal to make, sell, or import anything NEW made of tortoiseshell.
thedetails
- Materials
10k gold ear wires (tests), base metal findings, tortoiseshell
- Age
c. 1880
- Condition
Very good
- Size
2 7/8" length measured from the top of the ear wire, 1 1/8" at the widest point
Need more photos?
Send us an email to request photos of this piece on a model.
Aboutthe
VictorianEra
1837 — 1901
please note:Terms of Sale
Antiques can be returned unworn and in original condition within 10 days of delivery for an exchange or refund minus the cost of shipping. Once a piece has been altered, including ring re-sizing, it is FINAL SALE.