Victorian French 18K gold garnet poissarde briquet earrings

For sale a beautiful pair of French made Poissarde (French for fishwife) earrings made in 18K gold. They are hoop earrings with a back-to-front fitting that resembled a fish-hook.

This particular type is also called “Briquets” (French for Fire lighter), probably so named because of their profile similar to the iron used in the past to strike flints and make fire, they were very popular in the region from Auvergne to Dauphiné, but were also worn in several other regions of France.

The earrings are decorated with beautiful braided gold engravement and golden beads on the frame. The sparkling red garnets make an eye-catching contrast to the design. There is also a little gold ball hanging at the bottom to add more lightness created by movements. 

The earrings are stamped with the French eagle’s head hallmark for 18K gold on each side with a maker’s mark.

The box on the photo is for display only and it is not included in the listing.

Measurements and Condition

In very good antique condition with slight traces of use.

French eagle’s head hallmark and a maker’s mark on each side of the earrings.

Length: 27mm

Width: 5mm

Weight: 2.6g