Modernist Yellow Gold-Tone Tasseled Drop Earring
Earrings (Drop/Dangle) · Yellow Gold finish; alloy likely consists of brass or bronze base with a thin gold electroplate
Purity: Likely Gold-Plated or Costume Alloy based on surface wear and construction; no visible 10K-24K hallmarks
Type
Earrings (Drop/Dangle)
Purity
Likely Gold-Plated or Costume Alloy based on surface wear and construction; no visible 10K-24K hallmarks
Gold Type
Yellow Gold finish; alloy likely consists of brass or bronze base with a thin gold electroplate
Weight
3 - 5 grams (estimated based on hollow tiered construction)
Description
An eye-catching yellow gold-tone drop earring featuring a tiered, articulated design. The upper section consists of three graduated cones with a distinctive 'tree-bark' or ribbed texture that creates a rhythmic play of light. The piece terminates in a perfectly smooth, high-polished golden sphere, providing a modern architectural silhouette and movement.
Key Features
Triple-tiered flared silhouette, contrasting textures (ribbed vs. smooth), and articulated joints that allow for kinetic movement
Color & Finish
Rich yellow gold tone; features a vertical ribbed/textured finish on the upper tiers and a high-polish mirror finish on the terminal sphere
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps on the earring body or fishhook; common for mass-produced fashion jewelry
Dimensions Estimate
Approx. 2.5 inches (6.3 cm) in length; terminal sphere approx. 12mm in diameter
Gemstones & Inlays
None; purely metallic design focused on geometric texture and light reflection
Clasp & Closure
Fishhook (French hook) style with a secondary coil detail; non-locking wire intended for pierced ears
Chain & Links
Three-tier articulated flared cones attached via internal wire or pin; terminal sphere provides weight to the dangle
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped cones with a cast terminal sphere; assembly uses standard jewelry findings rather than artisan soldering
Authentication Indicators
Color depth suggests electroplating rather than solid gold; absence of hallmarks on the ear wire or body; visible mold lines on the spherical component
Origin & Maker
Unknown; likely mass-produced fashion brand (retail boutique or department store grade)
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary (2010s-present); mimics mid-century Brutalist or 1980s power-dressing styles
Age Estimate
Circa 2000-2020; design is a contemporary take on vintage geometric jewelry
Cultural Significance
Statement earrings of this scale were historically used to denote status and are currently staples of contemporary 'fast fashion' luxury aesthetics
Condition Notes
Good; visible surface scuffs on the polished bottom sphere and slight discoloration/patina on the ear wire consistent with costume jewelry wear
Value Estimate
$15 - $35 (Retail fashion value); negligible melt value as it appears to be a base metal alloy
Care & Maintenance
Avoid contact with perfumes and hairsprays to prevent plating wear; wipe with a soft dry cloth after use; store in a separate pouch to avoid scratching the polished sphere
Similar Items
Tiffany & Co. HardWear ball earrings (solid 18k), Aurate New York ribbed dangles (14k), or various high-street gold-plated fashion earrings
Interesting Facts
The tiered cone shape is a classic motif in 'Tassel' jewelry, which dates back to ancient Mesopotamia but saw a resurgence in the Art Deco era and again in 1980s fashion