Late 18th Century Perpignan Garnet Poissarde Earrings

Late 18th Century Perpignan garnet poissarde earrings. Foiled back, deep red rose-cut garnets set in 14k gold. The ear wires go from back to front, typical of 18th-century earrings. Continental Europe. Crica 1800. 

Measures .80" in drop length and .20" wide. 

This style was associated with the fishermen's wives of Paris, who played a significant role during the French Revolution. The design rose to popularity during a tumultuous time in France, influencing the subdued design choices of gold wire details or semi-precious gems. Examples using diamonds are more scarce and would have been made after 1804 with Napoleon’s return to opulence.  The classic Poissarde is a hoop earring differentiated by an elongated oval loop, often with an 'S' curve to balance weight and hang straight.