Pair of Ruby and Diamond Floral Bud Earrings with Enamelled Floral Ornamentation on Reverse
Date19th - 20th century
PeriodBritish India/Princely States
MediumGold, ruby, diamond
DimensionsOverall: 7/8 x 1 (2.2 x 2.5cm)
ClassificationsJewelry
Credit LineGift of the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation. Courtesy of the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art.
Object number57.149a-b
DescriptionThese floral bud ear clips consist of central diamonds encircled by clusters of rubies. These earrings previously belonged to the famous Polish opera singer, Madame Ganna Walska. Rubies are a significant stone in Hindu cosmology. Known as manika, the red stone represents the sun in the navaratna, an auspicious combination of gemstones that corresponds with the sun, moon, and planets. From ancient times, rubies were sourced from present-day Sri Lanka until they were discovered in Burma in the 1500s and Thailand in the 1600s.
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19th century
19th century
