These elongated drop earrings are carved from Whitby jet, each with a subtle meander motif (also known as a Greek key). Used since antiquity, the squared repeating pattern symbolizes continuity and eternal return. Its classical associations made it a perfect decoration for 19th century mourning jewelry, where memory and devotion were often expressed through ancient forms.
MATERIALS: 10k gold (tests), Whitby jet
AGE: c. 1860
CONDITION: Very good
SIZE: 2 1/2" length measured from the top of the ear wire