Japanese Damascene Butterfly Necklace and Earring Set

An absolutely incredible work of art! The screwback earrings, which feature detailed Pagoda scenes, are traditional damascene, an age old jewelry practice which involves inlaying 24k gold into a design that has been carved into a black steel backdrop. The necklace, on the other hand, is a more intricate etching process, where the black backdrop is in lower relief than the design itself. This results in scenes of Pagodas, Mt. Fiji and villages which are gorgeously detailed. This set, given the two distinctly different jewelry making processes involved with making them, are not an exact match. However, they were acquired in the same estate, and thus the woman who once owned these did wear them together. Please note that the earrings and necklace pieces are gold plated (some of that plating is worn, see condition), but the chain of the necklace is brass.

HISTORY: 1940's, stamped "Japan"

MATERIALS: Steel, brass, gold plated metal, 24k inlay

SIZE: The necklace fits right at the nape of the neck, measuring approximately 15". The center butterfly of the necklace measures 1.5" east to west. The length of the butterfly and the lavalier extension on the necklace totals nearly 2". The earrings measure 1 1/8" top to bottom, and nearly 3/4" in wingspan of the butterfly.

CONDITION: Overall good condition. There is definite wear to the gold plating on the backs of the earrings and necklace pieces, and there is a patina to the brass of the necklace, as can be seen in the photos.

This would make a wonderful bridal set!

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Each purchase is beautifully wrapped, and a complimentary gift card can be included upon request.