Our “Promised” jewelry line was created from re-purposed antique mother-of-pearl shell fan blades which were carved and engraved with silver in-lay creating stunning dangle earrings, pendants, and necklaces. Each one of a kind piece of jewelry was skillfully hand-made.
After Hurricane Katrina, in 2005, a huge clean-up effort began in the city. Many historical homes were severely damaged by the high winds, tornadoes, and floods. When I acquired this beautiful fan, I also acquired a wedding gown, and the matching silk shoes. I believe these items came from the attic of the home once owned by Colonel Henry G. Hester and his bride Fannie Lea. The Colonel led the New Orleans Cotton Exchange which was founded in 1871. Mother of Pearl fans were a symbol of being “promised” when used in public by the gentle ladies of the 19th Century.
These earrings are 48 millimeters (1 3/4 Inches) long, 19mm (approximately 3/4 inch) wide and 1mm thick. The ear findings are sterling silver, 925.
