Vintage Gold-Toned Mixed Media Costume Jewelry Flower Stud/Earring
Earring (Stud/Clip-on subcategory) · Yellow Gold Tone; likely a simulation achieved through chemical coloring or low-micron plating using an alloy of gold, copper, and zinc.
Purity: Non-solid gold; Gold-toned base metal. Likely costume jewelry with a thin gold-colored electroplate or wash over brass, copper, or lead-free alloy.
Type
Earring (Stud/Clip-on subcategory)
Purity
Non-solid gold; Gold-toned base metal. Likely costume jewelry with a thin gold-colored electroplate or wash over brass, copper, or lead-free alloy.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold Tone; likely a simulation achieved through chemical coloring or low-micron plating using an alloy of gold, copper, and zinc.
Weight
2.0 - 4.0 grams including non-metal components. The metallic portion is likely very thin and lightweight.
Description
An eclectic and charming gold-toned stud earring featuring a cluster of varied textures. It combines a floral motif with a faceted jet-black focal stone and clear crystal accents, creating a playful yet classic aesthetic suitable for daytime wear.
Key Features
Mixed-media design; textured metal petals; contrasting black and cream color palette; unique script branding on the support frame.
Color & Finish
High-luster gold-tone finish with visible surface oxidation (patina) and wear around the edges of the metal petals. The finish is polished but shows signs of aging/pitting.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A script signature or maker's mark is visible on the central bar, possibly reading 'D.S.' or a stylized brand initials. No karat stamps (e.g., 14K, 585) are visible, supporting its classification as costume jewelry.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 15mm to 20mm in width; standard petite decorative earring size.
Gemstones & Inlays
Includes one black faceted synthetic stone (likely glass or acrylic), one clear chaton-cut rhinestone, one opaque white enameled or resin floral element, and one textured cream-colored circular inlay with raised dots.
Clasp & Closure
Indeterminate from front view, but the structural bar suggests a standard post with butterfly back or a small clip-on assembly.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; the piece uses a rigid central bar construction to join the decorative elements.
Craftsmanship Details
Assembled using a combination of casting for the frame and adhesive/crimp settings for the decorative elements. Visible surface irregularities suggest a mass-production casting method.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for solid gold include the uneven wear on the metal edges revealing a darker base metal, the lack of standard purity hallmarking, and the use of glue-set synthetic stones.
Origin & Maker
Likely a mass-market fashion brand from the United States or Asia. The maker's mark suggests a specific designer line for department stores (e.g., Liz Claiborne, Trifari, or Napier).
Era & Period
Modern Era / Late 20th Century (1980s-1990s). The eclectic mix of materials (enamel, plastic/glass, and metal) and the 'cluster' style are indicative of mass-market fashion jewelry from this period.
Age Estimate
Circa 1985-2005 based on the style of the faceted black stone and the application of the cream-colored enamel/resin.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of fashion in the late 20th century, where 'high-fashion' looks were made accessible to the middle class through quality costume pieces.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Visible wear to the gold plating on the raised edges of the floral petals. Small abrasions on the black stone facets. The cream-colored circular inlay appears slightly discolored at the edges.
Value Estimate
$5 - $15 USD. The value is strictly in its aesthetic and collectible vintage appeal rather than precious metal content, as it contains negligible to no actual gold.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid all liquids, especially perfumes and hairsprays which will strip the thin plating. Clean only with a dry, soft microfiber cloth. Store in a dry environment to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
Vintage Sarah Coventry flower earrings, contemporary J.Crew costume jewelry, or Monet gold-tone floral brooch sets.
Interesting Facts
Costume jewelry of this era often used 'gold-tone' rather than real gold to remain affordable while providing the look of luxury. Designers like Kenneth Jay Lane popularized this 'more is more' cluster style.