Georgian era Stuart Crystal Earrings

Georgian era Stuart crystal earrings, with "M" monogram, in 15k gold. Beautiful reeded details on the back. Once a pair of cuff links, later converted to earrings. English in origin. Circa 1760. 

Measures .50" in drop length and .35" wide. 

Stuart Crystals started off as mourning jewels protesting the execution of King Charles I (of the House of Stuart) in 1649. By the end of the 17th century, the little rock crystal jewelry had become a popular form of memorial, mourning, and love token jewelry. The style continued until about 1735 when tastes shifted to other styles of mourning jewelry.