Antique Georgian 18K, Diamond & Garnet Drop Earrings

The pomegranate, a rosy-hued fruit, bursting with plentiful, glowing red, jewel-like seeds, is one of the oldest cultivated fruits. The ancient Greeks believed it to have been planted by The Goddess of love, Aphrodite on the island of Cyprus.

 In Ancient Greek mythology, Persephone, daughter of Demeter, goddess of the harvest was kidnapped by Hades, god of the underworld, who fell in love with her at first sight and carried her off to his kingdom. After eating seeds from the pomegranate offered to her, she bound herself to Hades and became his wife.

Demeter, mad with sorrow, hunted everywhere for Persephone, roaming the earth for ninety days looking for her daughter. She found her with Hades, and struck a bargain with him: Persephone would live four months on earth with the living, and eight months in the underworld.

Garnets are associated with love, life blood, and the human heart. Because of its similarity to pomegranate seeds, is also symbolic of friendship, and the safe return of loved ones, just as Persephone returned to her mother every year.

Fashioned in 18 karat yellow gold, these Georgian era earrings showcase large oval cabochon closed back garnet drops, suspended by smaller round cabochons. Accented with glittering diamonds, they have pierced post backs and look divine when glimpsed out in the sunlight, as well as in intimate candlelight! Seductive and dramatic, we have named them 'Melinoe', after Persephone's daughter.

The Georgian Era is 1714-1830

Details (approximate)

Dimensions: 1 3/8"

Weight: 6.93 grams each

Materials: Gold, Diamond, Garnet

Metal: 18K yellow gold

Marks: None

Condition: Excellent antique condition commensurate with age and wear