I believe they are earring wires,I have seen them else where in 14K gold.But I don't remember the term for them.
I think you're right. I have many earrings with latches or hooks that never fit over the ear wire, but are very rigid. I used to cut them off, the only way to wear the earrings without spilling blood. I know, I can be a philistine, but I'd rather mutilate an earring than my ears.
My phone slowed down so much... I had to reload the page for each image and front came out last - i never went back up there! That would have helped, huh? The toggle or butterflies should be bent up to provide a catch for the wires, I think...
Well thank you! I have my poppy pin. As it happens I was able to visit the Medal of Honor museum in Chattanooga Tennessee.