A striking pair of vintage drop earrings from the 1950s, combining deep lapis lazuli with organic 18ct yellow gold detailing inspired by natural forms. Lapis lazuli — one of the oldest and most prized gemstones in human history, mined in Afghanistan for over 6,000 years — is celebrated for its intense, velvety blue colour, often flecked with gold pyrite inclusions that give it an almost celestial quality. Against the warm yellow gold of the setting, the deep blue of the lapis creates a combination of exceptional richness and depth.

The organic, nature-inspired gold detailing is characteristic of mid-century jewellery design, where sculptural, flowing forms were favoured over the geometric precision of the Art Deco era. At 4.8cm in drop length and 10g, these are earrings of considerable presence. Fitted with shepherd's hook fittings for comfortable, effortless wear.

The Details

• Circa: 1950
• Metal: 18ct yellow gold (tests as 18ct)
• Stone: Lapis lazuli
• Weight: 10g
• Dimensions: 4.8 × 2cm
• Fitting: Shepherd's hook