14K Yellow Gold Citrine and Diamond Halo Lever-Back Earring
Earring (Drop/Lever-back style) · Yellow Gold. Likely alloyed with silver and copper to achieve a traditional warm tone.
Purity: 14K (58.5% pure gold). This is a common standard for jewelry, offering a balance of durability and intrinsic value.
Type
Earring (Drop/Lever-back style)
Purity
14K (58.5% pure gold). This is a common standard for jewelry, offering a balance of durability and intrinsic value.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. Likely alloyed with silver and copper to achieve a traditional warm tone.
Weight
1.5 to 2.5 grams. The piece appears relatively lightweight, designed for comfortable ear wear.
Description
A classic yellow gold drop earring featuring a sun-kissed yellow center stone. The central gem is framed by a glittering pavé-style halo that enhances its size and brilliance. The lever-back design ensures both elegance and security for the wearer.
Key Features
Tapered halo setting, secure lever-back mechanism, and a vibrant yellow-on-gold monochromatic color scheme.
Color & Finish
Classic rich yellow gold with a high-polish finish. There is visible dark patina/oxidation on the lower wire, suggesting age or contact with moisture.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps in the image, but typically located on the interior of the lever-back wire or the back of the setting as '14K' or '585'.
Dimensions Estimate
Estimated 15mm-18mm in total length; the halo setting is approximately 8mm-10mm in diameter.
Gemstones & Inlays
Features a central round-cut yellow gemstone (likely Citrine or Yellow Topaz) surrounded by a halo of small white stones (likely Diamonds or Cubic Zirconia) in prong settings.
Clasp & Closure
Lever-back closure. This style provides high security with a hinged back that snaps shut against the ear wire.
Chain & Links
N/A. The structural band is a smooth, tapered metal wire typical of European-style earring findings.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast construction with machine-set prongs. The lever-back hinge shows standard commercial-grade assembly.
Authentication Indicators
The color consistency of the setting suggests solid gold, though the darkening of the wire could indicate a base metal core if it is gold-filled, requiring an acid test for confirmation.
Origin & Maker
Likely commercial production from a high-volume manufacturer (USA or Italy). No specific brand mark is visible.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century to present). The halo design is a timeless motif revived heavily in the 2000s.
Age Estimate
Likely 10-25 years old based on the setting style and the accumulated tarnish/oxidation on the findings.
Cultural Significance
Yellow gemstones like Citrine are historically associated with prosperity, energy, and the warmth of the sun.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant oxidation or plating wear is visible on the curved earring wire. The stones appear intact but may require professional cleaning.
Value Estimate
Melt value approximately $60-$90; Retail replacement value between $250-$450 depending on stone authenticity.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if the center stone is a treated Citrine. Professional polishing will remove the dark oxidation on the wire.
Similar Items
Often confused with 10K gold versions or costume jewelry versions using Gold Vermeil and Swarovski crystals.
Interesting Facts
The 'Halo' setting was first popularized in the Georgian era but saw a massive resurgence in the early 21st century to make smaller center stones appear larger.