Vintage Gold-Plated Crystal and Ruby-Colored Paste Clip-On Chandelier Earrings
Earrings (Drop/Chandelier clip-on style) · Yellow Gold finish over base metal alloy
Purity: Gold-plated/Costume jewelry alloy, no standard solid gold fineness mark visible
Type
Earrings (Drop/Chandelier clip-on style)
Purity
Gold-plated/Costume jewelry alloy, no standard solid gold fineness mark visible
Gold Type
Yellow Gold finish over base metal alloy
Weight
Estimated lightweight costume jewelry, approximately 8 to 15 grams combined
Description
These stunning vintage clip-on earrings feature a dramatic chandelier design rich with old-world glamour. A top cluster of ruby-red navette and round stones transitions into an articulated multi-tiered drop layout resembling floral or foliate motifs. The vibrant red glass stones contrast brilliantly against the warm yellow gold-plated setting, while sparkling clear rhinestone accents add dimensional brilliance. Designed for non-pierced ears, they offer a secure clip-on mechanism and fluid movement thanks to delicate jump-ring connectors.
Key Features
Articulated multi-tier drop construction, vibrant ruby-red marquise glass stones, sparkling clear rhinestone accents, and secure clip-on hardware
Color & Finish
High-polish warm yellow gold finish featuring vibrant ruby-red and clear crystal glass stones
Hallmarks & Stamps
No clear maker's marks or purity hallmarks visible from the angle provided, typical of unmarked mid-century costume pieces
Dimensions Estimate
Estimated length of 2 to 2.5 inches and width of approximately 0.75 inches at the widest cluster
Gemstones & Inlays
Marquise and oval cut ruby-red paste/glass stones accented by small clear chaton rhinestones in prong and bezel settings
Clasp & Closure
Clip-on paddle backs with adjustable tension clips suitable for non-pierced ears
Chain & Links
Articulated link construction utilizing small jump rings to allow graceful movement and drape of the cascading stone drops
Craftsmanship Details
Cast and stamped base metal components assembled with soldered jump rings and prong-set glass stones, reflecting standard mid-century costume manufacturing techniques
Authentication Indicators
Typical construction of mid-century fashion jewelry featuring folded prong settings, unmarked base metal alloy, and standard hinge-clip mechanisms
Origin & Maker
Unattributed maker, likely produced in the United States or Europe during the mid-20th-century costume jewelry boom
Era & Period
Retro / Mid-Century Hollywood Regency style, circa 1950s-1970s
Age Estimate
Mid-20th century, circa 1950-1975
Cultural Significance
Representative of the post-WWII democratization of luxury fashion, where high-style statement jewelry made with plated metals and paste stones allowed everyday consumers to emulate Hollywood glamour
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. Metal plating remains bright with minor signs of age-appropriate surface wear. Stones appear intact with good color saturation and secure settings
Value Estimate
Estimated secondary market value between $30 and $100 depending on specific maker attribution and overall condition
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid all contact with water, ultrasonic cleaners, perfumes, hairsprays, and harsh chemicals to preserve the gold plating and foil-backed stones
Similar Items
Vintage Trifari, Monet, or Weiss cluster drop clip-on earrings featuring colored glass cabochons and rhinestones
Interesting Facts
Clip-on earrings reached the height of their popularity during the mid-20th century when fashion required substantial, statement-making accessories that could support heavy stone clusters without sagging