The iconic 'Old Country Roses' pattern by Royal Albert is still one of the best selling fine bone china patterns today, having sold more than 150 million pieces since its introduction.
The story of Royal Albert stretches back over 150 years ago. Whilst the Royal Albert brand was created in 1904, its roots are to be found in the Albert works, in Longton, Stoke on Trent, built in 1846. The Albert works were named after Queen Victoria’s consort, Prince Albert, whom she married in 1840.
'Old Country Roses' was designed by Harold Holdcroft, Royal Albert’s Art Director, in 1962. He based his design on the 1921 Royal Albert 'King’s Ransom' pattern, whilst drawing additional inspiration from the rich colours and fragrant roses in full bloom in an English cottage garden.
This tremendously popular pattern is still in production today. The Old Country Roses saucer this jewellery was crafted from dates to probably the 1990's. These rose buds are slightly off-set from each other in each earring - I just thought it was more interesting that way!!
As with all Goosehouse Designs jewellery, this unique jewellery is individually handcrafted by me in my studio. My upcycled, sustainable, broken china jewellery is crafted from ethically-sourced, pre-damaged, vintage china, that would otherwise end up in landfill. It is the perfect romantic gift for wedding anniversaries, birthdays, Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day and any time you want to show your love through a treasured piece of artisan jewellery.
Your Goosehouse Designs jewellery will be sent to you carefully wrapped and packaged using recycled and recyclable materials. I am committed, at all times, to operating my business in every way I can to be kinder and gentler to the planet.
The silver in these earrings is sterling silver, and is stamped with the .925 stamp.
The hooks are sterling silver.
These earrings measure 15mm across and 5mm deep.
Royal Albert, Old Country Roses, vintage china, small round earrings
The vintage china I use in my jewellery pieces is all recycled from pieces found at garage sales and op. shops, or through vintage dealers, who are happy to pass on some of their less-than-perfect items. I carefully cut out the selected section of china, shape it by hand, then grind the edges nice and smooth. I securely fix the piece into the sterling silver blank, then grout it so it stays firmly in place.
As with all artisan jewellery, some care needs to be taken to keep your piece in as-new condition.
The vintage china in your piece may well be up to a hundred years old, and needs to be treated accordingly. It is not recommended that you swim or shower whilst wearing your jewellery, nor that you wear it gardening or playing sport or any other activity where the item may get badly knocked. China is breakable, after all.
The sterling silver ring and earring hooks are easily adjustable, but care must be taken not to bend them too quickly or too sharply. As with all metals, if they are worked roughly they may break.
The sterling silver bezel will enjoy a regular simple polish with a quality silvercloth. If you do use silver polish, do not get it on the china or the grout. Do not use strong chemicals on your jewellery.