Gold-Plated Designer Cat-Eye Fashion Sunglasses with Gradient Lenses
Luxury Eyewear / Sunglasses · Yellow Gold finish via electroplating or PVD coating over a metal alloy base.
Purity: Gold-Plated (GP) or Gold-Filled; likely 0.5 to 3 microns of 18K/14K gold over a base metal of Monel, titanium, or stainless steel.
Type
Luxury Eyewear / Sunglasses
Purity
Gold-Plated (GP) or Gold-Filled; likely 0.5 to 3 microns of 18K/14K gold over a base metal of Monel, titanium, or stainless steel.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold finish via electroplating or PVD coating over a metal alloy base.
Weight
35-50 grams total weight. The gold content itself is negligible (less than 0.1g), as it is a surface treatment.
Description
These elegant cat-eye sunglasses blend vintage charm with modern luxury. Featuring a slender gold-finished metal chassis, the frame is accented by soft-contoured translucent rim inserts that highlight the gradient lenses. The upswept corners provide a lifting effect to the face, making them a staple accessory for high-fashion enthusiasts.
Key Features
Angular cat-eye silhouette, two-tone material construction (metal and acetate), adjustable gold-toned nose pads, and sunset-gradient lenses.
Color & Finish
High-polish yellow gold finish with a reflective mirror-like surface on the bridge and hinges; satin-like translucent plastic or acetate rim inserts.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected markings on the inner temples (not fully visible) would include CE mark, model number, frame dimensions (e.g., 54-18-140), and brand logo.
Dimensions Estimate
Standard Oversized Fit: Lens width 54mm, Bridge width 17mm, Temple length 140mm; Frame width approx 145mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones; features translucent grey/brown acetate or nylon rim inlays within the metal frame and gradient brown-to-pink synthetic lenses.
Clasp & Closure
Screw-retained barrel hinges for the temples and adjustable pad arms with silicone or gold-toned nose pads.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; the frame features solid metal wire construction for the bridge and slim metallic temples.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-pressed metal components with hand-polished finishing; press-fit acetate inserts; precision-tensioned hinges.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of the bridge, quality of the hinge soldering, and clarity of the lens tint. Authentic luxury frames will have deeply engraved (not printed) temple markings.
Origin & Maker
Likely manufactured in Italy, France, or China; typical of high-street luxury brands or mid-tier fashion labels.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2010s-current) with Retro/1950s 'Cat-Eye' stylistic influences.
Age Estimate
Modern production, likely manufactured between 2018 and 2024 based on the lens gradient and frame style.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of mid-century femininity and glamour, popularized by icons like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe, and revitalized in modern street-style culture.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition; minor surface micro-scratches visible on the lenses. Gold finish appears intact with no significant 'brassing' or oxidation. Grade: 8/10.
Value Estimate
Resale Value: $40 - $120 depending on brand; Retail: $150 - $450. Melt Value: $0 (plating is too thin for recovery).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a microfiber cloth and specialized lens spray. Avoid salt water and swimming pools as chlorine can erode the gold plating. Store in a hard case.
Similar Items
Solid 18K Gold Cartier frames (significantly heavier/valuable), Tom Ford Whitney sunglasses, or Ray-Ban Nina frames.
Interesting Facts
The 'Cat-Eye' frame was originally designed by Altina Schinasi in the 1930s to bring glamour to a strictly utilitarian eyewear industry.