Vintage-Style White Gold Chandelier Earring with Emerald-Tone Glass Beads
Earrings (Chandelier/Drop style) · White gold alloy (unplated). The item lacks the bright, mirror-like finish of rhodium plating, showing a natural warm grey tone characteristic of unplated white gold.
Purity: Likely 10K (41.7% gold) or 14K (58.5% gold). The matte, greyish patina suggests it could also be white gold plated over silver (vermeil) or a lower karat white gold alloy with high nickel/manganese content.
Type
Earrings (Chandelier/Drop style)
Purity
Likely 10K (41.7% gold) or 14K (58.5% gold). The matte, greyish patina suggests it could also be white gold plated over silver (vermeil) or a lower karat white gold alloy with high nickel/manganese content.
Gold Type
White gold alloy (unplated). The item lacks the bright, mirror-like finish of rhodium plating, showing a natural warm grey tone characteristic of unplated white gold.
Weight
3.5 to 5.0 grams for the single earring. The weight is distributed across the filigree frame and the glass bead drops.
Description
An elegant white gold chandelier earring featuring a central openwork filigree motif inspired by classical floral scrolls. Seven emerald-hued glass briolettes are suspended across the piece—one at the top, one centered within the frame, and five forming a shimmering fringe at the base—creating movement and light play. The unplated white gold provides a subdued, antique Look.
Key Features
Openwork scrolling filigree frame, articulated briolette fringe, and a distinct lack of rhodium plating which gives it a darker, 'steely' vintage appearance.
Color & Finish
Greyish-white with a satin/matte finish. There is visible surface oxidation and patina in the recessed areas of the filigree, indicating age or a lack of recent rhodium treatment.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks are visible in the provided image. They would typically be located on the earring wire (hook) or the reverse side of the top scroll element. The absence of stamps may indicate a custom/artisan piece or a plated fashion item.
Dimensions Estimate
Total length approximately 2.5 to 3 inches (65-75mm). Width of the central filigree section is approximately 0.75 inches (19mm).
Gemstones & Inlays
Faceted emerald-green glass or synthetic crystal beads. The irregularity in the briolette cuts and the way light reflects through them suggests glass rather than natural emerald or tourmaline.
Clasp & Closure
Simple ear wire (French hook). The wire is thin and suggests a functional, non-locking closure typical of drop earrings.
Chain & Links
Small cable link chain used to connect the hook to the filigree body and to suspend the lower bead drops. Links appear machine-made but hand-assembled into the fringe.
Craftsmanship Details
The filigree is likely cast rather than hand-pierced, indicated by the rounded edges of the scrolls. The beads are attached via hand-looped headpins, which is a standard assembly technique for fringe jewelry.
Authentication Indicators
The greyish color is consistent with low-karat white gold; however, the lack of hallmarks is a red flag for solid gold. A streak test or XRF analysis is required to confirm if the base metal is gold or silver.
Origin & Maker
Likely commercial or boutique artisan production. The construction quality suggests a mid-tier jewelry maker rather than a high-end luxury house like Cartier or Tiffany.
Era & Period
Modern revival of Art Nouveau or Edwardian aesthetics. The use of scrolls and dangling 'fringe' elements mimics the 'Belle Époque' style, likely manufactured in the late 20th century (1970s-1990s).
Age Estimate
30 to 50 years old (circa 1970-1990). The wear on the metal and the style of the chain links are consistent with late 20th-century vintage fashion jewelry.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Bohemian' and 'Retro-Victorian' fashion movements that saw a resurgence in the 1970s, valuing intricate metalwork and romantic, dangling silhouettes.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Visible surface scratches and minor tarnishing on the wire and links. One bead at the bottom right appears to be hanging slightly lower, suggesting a stretched link. Wear Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
Melt value (if 10K) approximately $80-$100; Est. retail vintage value $150-$250 for a pair. If costume/plated, value is $20-$40. Value is primarily in design and wearable appeal rather than investment gold.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft brush and mild soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners as they may loosen the wire wraps holding the glass beads. Do not use harsh silver polishes which could damage the gold alloy surface.
Similar Items
1920s Art Deco Platinum Filigree Earrings (higher value), Victorian Silver-Topped Gold Earrings (more ornate), or modern 14K White Gold 'Bead Fringe' earrings.
Interesting Facts
Chandelier earrings gained massive popularity in the 1920s to complement the short 'bob' hairstyles of flappers, as they filled the space between the ear and the shoulder.