These Dutch one-of-a-kind antique 14 karat rose gold dangle earrings are beautifully decorated with very fine filigree, cannetille work and the so-called 'spiders'. The filigree is very skillfully handcrafted and gives the impression of lace or fine embroidery.
 
This pair of rose gold earrings were worn as hat bells by women and hooked into the front strip of the hat. Hat bells were worn in a larger part of the Netherlands. These earrings are characterized by their secure back screw design. 
 
These hat bells, were part of an 'ear iron' and were worn in pairs, used as headdress accessories. It was unique and important to the national costume - regional dress - and tradition in The Netherlands. It started as a 'simple' accessory, a kind of peasant jewelry that women worn in some regions in The Netherlands. In the beginning created to secure expensive lace skull caps from the gusts of sea winds, the simple iron band evolved into an ornate headdress, to display family wealth in the form of valuable metals and detailed filigree and cannetille work.
 
Earrings length are 4.4 cm, width 1.8 cm and weigh 5.77 grams together.
 
Creator of these pieces: Marinus Nelemans, Oudenbosch The Netherlands (1853-1895)
 
We are happy to answer any questions about these one-of-a-kind filigree earrings.