A beautiful example of 1960s Spain, shown in this stunning earrings and ring set.
Excellent vintage condition. Includes both original presentation boxes, original display card backing for the earrings, and protective cotton lining. No significant wear to the gold inlay. Clips and adjustable ring band function perfectly.
Information
Authentic Spanish Damascene Renaissance style Earrings decorated with birds and flowers. Alomg with Arabesque geometric pattern design on the ring, which is set with 2 Amethyst gemstones each side.
The inlay reads: "Damasquinados 1. ª Calidad" (Damascene 1st Quality) & "Oro Fino 24 quattates incrustado" (Fine 24k gold encrusted).
Brand: Arte de Toledo Damascene
Era: Vintage 1960s
Material:
The central black-and-gold discs on the earrings and the face of the ring are constructed via multi-layer metals:
The Base Plate: A thin plaque of heavy carbon steel or iron. This base metal is scored by an artisan with a diamond-tipped tool to create microscopic cross-hatched grooves.
The Shiny Inlay Motif: Genuine 24-karat yellow gold foil and wire. The artisan uses a small punch and hammer to beat the precious metal directly into the scored steel grooves until it physically adheres.
The Pitch-Black Background: Chemically blued/oxidized steel. After the gold is embedded, the piece is treated with an oxidizing solution (or exposed to intense heat and acid). This turns the exposed, bare steel plate into a rich, rust-resistant deep black color while keeping the gold untouched and bright.
The parts of the jewelry meant to be worn or adjusted cannot be made of brittle steel, so separate components are attached:
The Earring Clips & Connector Rings: Typically crafted from a gold-plated brass or copper base alloy to match the yellow gold detailing while remaining flexible enough for the tension clip mechanism.
The Ring: The adjustable band is crafted from an alloy base (like brass or alpaca metal) that has been heavily plated in sterling silver or rhodium to keep it bright and completely rust-free. In authentic vintage Toledo pieces, the decorated steel plate is mounted into a pronged frame or setting connected to the band. As you see in the photos.
Condition: Excellent condition, no wear or damage, 24k gold design still crisp, clear, intact and bright. The Earring mounting card, still in good display with clear unworn writing.
I aim to send out items 2 days after the auction ends via Royal Mail 48hr tracked delivery or Royal Mail tracked international delivery.