22K Yellow Gold Traditional Indian Polki and Pearl Drop Jhumka Earrings
Earrings - Drop/Jhumka style with pearl drops and polki stone settings · Traditional Yellow Gold with a warm, rich tone, alloyed with silver and copper to impart both durability and a deep, authentic Indian gold aesthetic
Purity: Likely 22K (916) or 18K (750) solid gold, typical of fine South Asian heritage jewelry, representing 75% to 91.6% pure gold content
Type
Earrings - Drop/Jhumka style with pearl drops and polki stone settings
Purity
Likely 22K (916) or 18K (750) solid gold, typical of fine South Asian heritage jewelry, representing 75% to 91.6% pure gold content
Gold Type
Traditional Yellow Gold with a warm, rich tone, alloyed with silver and copper to impart both durability and a deep, authentic Indian gold aesthetic
Weight
Estimated between 15 to 25 grams total for the pair due to the substantial metalwork, intricate filigree, and gemstone settings
Description
These magnificent earrings showcase the pinnacle of traditional South Asian goldsmithing, featuring an intricate paisley (mango or kalga) motif paired with floral clusters. The complex metalwork incorporates delicate filigree wirework and granulation. Uncut Polki diamonds gleam softly from the textured yellow gold settings, while delicate clusters of seed pearls and prominent dangling pearls complete the opulent silhouette. Designed to sway gracefully with every movement, these earrings embody timeless elegance and rich cultural heritage.
Key Features
Intricate paisley and floral filigree metalwork, traditional Polki-style uncut gemstone settings, articulated pearl drop fringes, and a warm, antique-finished yellow gold backdrop
Color & Finish
Deep, rich yellow gold tone with a matte or antique-buffed finish rather than a mirror polish, accentuating the traditional handcrafted look and intricate relief
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected standard Indian assay marks or purity stamps (such as 916 or 750) located on the reverse or posts, though finer artisan heritage pieces may carry maker's marks instead of standardized stamps
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 50mm to 65mm in total length and 20mm to 25mm in maximum width at the widest point of the paisley motif
Gemstones & Inlays
Set with flat-cut uncut diamonds (Polki style) in traditional foil-backed or open settings, accented with clusters of small seed pearls and finished with larger freshwater or cultured pearl drops
Clasp & Closure
Secure post and butterfly back closure (push-back style) standard for modern adaptations of traditional South Asian earrings, reinforced for heavier pendant loads
Chain & Links
Articulated jump rings and drop links connecting the upper floral motif, central paisley body, and lower pearl fringes to allow natural movement and fluid drape
Craftsmanship Details
Exquisite hand-fabricated and assembled construction featuring fine wire filigree, precise stone placement, secure bezel and foil-backed settings, and delicate articulation rings allowing fluid movement
Authentication Indicators
Handmade artisan texturing, traditional use of foil-backed or open-back Polki settings, natural color variation in pearls, and heavy gold presence typical of authentic South Asian high-karat markets. Professional XRF testing recommended to confirm exact alloy purity
Origin & Maker
Handcrafted in India, historically renowned for exquisite gold granulation, filigree, and Kundan-Polki gemstone setting techniques
Era & Period
Contemporary craftsmanship executed in a classical Mughal/Victorian revival style, drawing heavy inspiration from heritage royal Indian jewelry designs
Age Estimate
Likely contemporary production (21st century) created in the traditional aesthetic of older Mughal or antique Indian court jewelry
Cultural Significance
Essential components of bridal and festive attire in South Asian culture, symbolizing prosperity, auspiciousness, and familial wealth passed down through generations
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent condition with minimal signs of wear; secure settings for all Polki stones and pearls, clean metal surfaces with intentional antique texturing
Value Estimate
Valued primarily on a combination of high-karat gold melt value, gemstone weight, and significant artisan craftsmanship premium, placing them well above raw bullion value in the luxury retail market
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft, dry microfibre cloth; avoid harsh ultrasonic cleaners, chemical dips, or steam cleaning due to the delicate nature of pearls and traditional foil or closed-back stone settings. Store flat in an anti-tarnish fabric pouch away from moisture
Similar Items
Kundan-set gold chandbalis, Meenakari enamel drop earrings, and traditional 22K temple jewelry earrings from South India
Interesting Facts
The Polki style uses uncut, natural diamonds in the form they are mined, a tradition dating back to the Mughal Empire when diamonds were exclusively sourced from India's Golconda mines