Downton Abbey Inspired Earrings

Yesterday I posted about new black jewellery I've been making, much of it inspired by Downton Abbey. I've been pigging out on the drama series...only to research the fashions, you understand.

Long black onyx earrings, inspired by Downton Abbey

You see, a friend lent me the DVDS of series 1 and 2 as I had missed many of the early episodes. Over the Christmas break, as a treat for all my hard work in the busy season, I have watched 12 episodes over the course of a week. Some may call that over indulgence...but it's all in the name of research! Really.  

By now I am totally immersed in early 20th century style. To consolidate it all, yesterday I visited a wonderful temporary exhibition of Paris fashion plates from 1912 to 1914 at the Chester Beatty Library. If you are in Dublin and you  love the history of fashion, it's a must see.

There wasn't much in the way of jewellery to see, but the beading and details on the costumes sparked my creativity.  After sneaking in another episode of the drama, I made the above pair of long, elegant onyx earrings.

'Midnight in Dublin' earrings are made with onyx gemstone beads and silver chain dangles. The ornate cones are silver plate. I always use hypoallergenic, solid sterling silver hooks as they are kindest to the ears. These dangle earrings will look stunning with up-dos or short hair.

I will be making a few more pairs in stones of other colours this season as well as listing pearl jewellery also inspired by the first 3 decades of the last century.

Now if you will excuse me, I think I need to do another hour of research.....

long pearl earrings 1920s style

Black Jewelry: Hit 2 Trends in 1: Monochrome and Downton Abbey

Monochrome continues to be a hot trend for the start of 2014 and when it comes to accessories, every woman should have the black staple pieces in her jewellery box. If you go for black and silver, you gain the monochrome look without limiting your choices to black and white outfits only.

Agate slice pendant, 'Midnight in Dublin'

When it comes to statement pieces, this black and white agate slice pendant really packs a punch. Cut on the cross section, you can see the gorgeous banding of the sleek stone. I decorated it with a simple, sterling silver swirl, a nod to ancient Celtic design. A modern classic, you can wear this piece long after monochrome takes a break from the cat walks.

chunky onyx bracelet, inspired by Downton Abbey mourning jewelry

Just like the LBD a black gemstone bracelet is a long-standing must-have in every woman's wardrobe. This chunky onyx bracelet is teamed with pre-oxidised sterling silver for a classic feel.

I was inspired to make it after catching up on missed episodes of season 1 of Downton Abbey over Christmas. The mourning jewelry worn by the Grantham ladies after the death of Lady Mary's first 'betrothed' on the Titanic has fired my imagination into overdrive. Watch this space for some exciting pieces in 2014.