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Vintage 18K Solid Gold Colombian Devil Mask Earrings - Carnaval de Riosucio 2.5g
Vintage 18K Solid Gold Colombian Devil Mask Earrings - Carnaval de Riosucio 2.5g
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A Piece of Colombian Folklore in 18K Gold
Up for sale is a stunning pair of handcrafted earrings originating from the heart of Colombia.
These are not just jewelry; they are a tribute to the world-famous Carnaval de Riosucio (The Carnival of the Devil).
In this tradition, the "Devil" is a symbol of joy, racial unity, and protection.
Exquisite Craftsmanship & Materials:
Metal: Solid 18K Yellow Gold (Professionally tested at 2.5 grams total).
Design: Intricately detailed "Diablo" masks featuring stylized horns and a rebellious, folk-art aesthetic.
Details: The eyes are finished with a vibrant, fire-red cold enamel, giving the pieces a lifelike and "mischievous" spark.
Origin: Colombian artisan workshop, likely from the Caldas/Antioquia region.
Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The 18k gold has a rich, buttery luster. The red enamel is intact and vibrant. These are stud-style earrings, perfect for daily wear or as a unique addition to a high-karat gold collection.
Specifications:
Total Weight: 2.5 Grams
Purity: 18k / 750
(Unmarked, as is common with custom Colombian artisan taller-work, but guaranteed and tested).
Style: Post/Stud Earrings
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Finding that the eyes are enamel (rather than set stones) is a strong indicator of their specific artisan origin. It moves them away from the "luxury retail" category and firmly into the world of Colombian folk art and traditional festival jewelry.
1. The "Cold Enamel" Tradition
In the region of Riosucio, Caldas, many local goldsmiths use a technique called "cold enamel" or "frio" to finish their Carnival-themed pieces.
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Artisan Choice: While high-karat gold (18k) is used for the structure because of its cultural prestige, enamel is chosen for the eyes because it allows for a vibrant, opaque red that mimics the painted masks worn in the streets.
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The Look: Enamel gives the eyes a "liquid" or "burning" look that rubies sometimes lack. In the context of the Carnaval del Diablo, the "burning gaze" is a key feature of the Devil’s icon.
2. Meaning: The "Gaze of the Devil"
The enamel eyes are meant to represent the spark of life and mischief. * In Colombian folklore, the "Devil" isn't just a figure of the underworld; he is the "Guardian of the Festival."
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The bright red enamel eyes signify that the spirit is "awake" and watching the party. It is a symbol of intellect, satire, and social critique—three pillars of the Riosucio Carnival.
3. Verification of Origin
The combination of 18k Gold + No Hallmark + Enamel Eyes creates a very specific profile:
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Region: Almost certainly Caldas or Antioquia, Colombia.
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Maker: A traditional "Taller" (workshop) artisan. These jewelers often focus on the artistic representation of the mask rather than the commercial standards of a luxury jewelry brand.
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Date: Likely made in the last 40 years. While the Carnival tradition is centuries old, the specific use of red enamel in gold "Devil" earrings became a popular regional souvenir and local pride piece starting in the 1970s and 80s.
Summary
You own a piece of wearable folklore. They weren't just made to be "expensive earrings"; they were made to celebrate a very specific Colombian identity—one that embraces irony, joy, and the blending of cultures. The fact that they are 18k gold makes them a "prestige" version of a folk icon.
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