The tiny rose cut diamonds in these earrings, 48 in total, are set in silver on an 18k mount. At their center is a round cabochon turquoise stone, making them appear flower-like.  They were most likely made around 1890.

Turquoise is a copper aluminium phosphate mineral found on different continents, from the Middle East and China to the US. These particular stones are most likely from Afghanistan.  

Some of the first jewellery or amulets found decorated with turquoise were Egyptian grave gifts for the afterlife. The Egyptians found their stones in two mines in the Sinai region and in Iran. Turquoise was a rare mineral at the time, which is why many grave gifts, meant for the afterlife, were made out of blue glass pretending to be the precious stones. For the Egyptians, turquoise represented fertility and growth or vegetation. Today, we appreciate its vibrant colour and smooth texture in our jewellery past and present..