Vintage Citrine-Tone Glass Cluster Gold-Plated Clip-On Earring
Earring (Clip-on cocktail style) · Yellow Gold plating over a base metal (likely brass or pewter).
Purity: Gold-plated (base metal with a thin coating of gold, likely 1-2 microns). Non-solid gold.
Type
Earring (Clip-on cocktail style)
Purity
Gold-plated (base metal with a thin coating of gold, likely 1-2 microns). Non-solid gold.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating over a base metal (likely brass or pewter).
Weight
3 to 5 grams
Description
A classic vintage cocktail earring featuring a warm yellow glass centerpiece framed by a halo of clear accents. The piece exhibits the bold, glamorous aesthetic of mid-century costume jewelry intended for evening wear.
Key Features
Cluster design, large oval faceted center stone, traditional clip-on backing, wire-prong setting for small accents.
Color & Finish
Yellow gold finish with visible oxidation and wear (brassing) exposing the copper-toned base metal underneath. High-polish originally.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps in the image; typical of mid-century costume jewelry, any mark would be on the clip lever.
Dimensions Estimate
Approx. 15mm - 20mm total length; center stone approx. 8mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
Faceted citrine-tone glass or acrylic center stone surrounded by clear rhinestone glass accents in a prong setting.
Clasp & Closure
Clip-on mechanism with a tension-hinge lever.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; features a cast metal cluster setting.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast metal construction with hand-set glass stones; prongs show signs of age-related bending and oxidation.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for solid gold include the visible copper-colored wear on the clip, the rough cast edges, and the use of glass stones rather than precious gems.
Origin & Maker
Likely mass-produced costume jewelry, common in the US or West Germany during the mid-20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (likely 1950s-1960s) costume jewelry period.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1970 based on the prong-set glass and clip-on mechanism.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury during the post-war era, where 'costume' jewelry allowed for high-fashion looks without the cost of fine gold.
Condition Notes
Fair. Significant wear to the gold plating (brassing) on the clip and prongs. Possible residue or tarnish on the base metal.
Value Estimate
$5 - $15 (Value is decorative/vintage interest; negligible melt value as it is not solid gold).
Care & Maintenance
Avoid all liquids; clean only with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Do not use jewelry cleaners which will strip the remaining thin gold plating.
Similar Items
Coro or Trifari costume pieces; higher-end alternatives would be 14k gold citrine studs which would not show base metal wear.
Interesting Facts
Clip-on earrings peaked in popularity during the mid-20th century before pierced ears became a standard fashion choice for women in the Late 1960s.