Larkspur & Hawk Antique Red Bristol Glass Button Earrings Ca 1840

These large-scaled, vibrant earrings were once jeweled buttons for a gentleman’s waistcoat. Bristol, England was a popular glass manufacturing city beginning in the 18th century and flourishing throughout the 19th. As a port city, it thrived on trade and the importation of materials, most notably cobalt oxide from Saxony, which enabled the production of its most popular glass, referred to as Bristol Blue. 

These earrings, dating to the early Victorian period, are a design popularly used with cobalt glass, but are particularly noteworthy for their currant color. The translucent glass glows from all angles and is further enhanced by a white paste frame and applied flower. 

A great addition to a button jewelry collection!

England, ca 1840