14K Yellow Gold Emerald-Cut Pink Tourmaline Open Drop Stud Earring
Earrings (Stud/Drop Subcategory) · Yellow Gold. The alloy likely contains copper and silver in a balance that creates a traditional warm, buttery yellow hue.
Purity: 14K (58.3% Pure Gold). The structure indicates solid gold construction, common for fine jewelry designed for durability and daily wear.
Type
Earrings (Stud/Drop Subcategory)
Purity
14K (58.3% Pure Gold). The structure indicates solid gold construction, common for fine jewelry designed for durability and daily wear.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. The alloy likely contains copper and silver in a balance that creates a traditional warm, buttery yellow hue.
Weight
1.2 - 1.8 grams for a single earring. The piece appears to be cast solid rather than hollow, providing substantial weight relative to its size.
Description
An elegant and spirited 14K yellow gold stud earring featuring a vibrant emerald-cut pink gemstone. The stone is nestled within a sculptural, open-teardrop frame that curves gracefully around it, creating a sense of movement and depth. The high-polish finish reflects light beautifully, contrasting with the structured step-facets of the pink tourmaline.
Key Features
Architectural 'ribbon' gold frame, vibrant emerald-cut gemstone orientation, and the use of a semi-bezel setting which offers excellent protection for the stone.
Color & Finish
Classic warm yellow gold with a high-polish mirror finish. The surface exhibits soft wear patterns and slight patina consistent with regular use.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A partial '14K' or '585' stamp is visible on the interior of the gold loop. The post also appears to have small indentations where fineness markings are typically located.
Dimensions Estimate
Estimated height of 12-15mm and width of 8-10mm. The gemstone is approximately 5x3mm. Standard ear post length of 10mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
Pink Tourmaline or Pink Topaz. Emerald-cut (octagon step-cut), estimated 0.40 - 0.60 carats. Secured in a partial rub-over/bezel setting that follows the geometric lines of the stone.
Clasp & Closure
Post and friction back (butterfly back). The post is notched for security. The friction back is missing in the image but would typically be a matching 14K gold butterfly nut.
Chain & Links
N/A. The structure is a rigid cast form with a fixed post soldered to the upper rear of the gold frame.
Craftsmanship Details
Lost-wax casting method. The gemstone has been hand-set into the bezel. The soldering of the post is clean and professional with no excess solder overflow visible.
Authentication Indicators
Color consistency across the post and body; deep, cast hallmark on the inner surface; lack of 'brassing' or plating wear at high-friction points on the post.
Origin & Maker
Likely North American (USA or Canada) commercial fine jewelry maker. The style is characteristic of boutique manufacturers or high-end department store jewelers.
Era & Period
Contemporary with Mid-Century influence. The fluid, asymmetrical 'ribbon' loop combined with a geometric stone emerald cut suggests a design from the late 1980s to early 2000s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010. The casting technique and the choice of an emerald-cut colored gemstone in an asymmetrical setting were highly popular during this period.
Cultural Significance
Represents the evolution of everyday luxury jewelry, moving away from simple round studs to more expressive, sculptural forms designed for professional and social versatility.
Condition Notes
Very Good. There are minor surface micro-scratches on the gold surface. The gemstone facets appear sharp with no visible chips. The post is straight and intact.
Value Estimate
$150 - $250 USD for the pair. Value is based on gold weight, gemstone quality, and retail craftsmanship premiums. Melt value is significant but roughly 30-40% of the total decorative value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Safe for ultrasonic cleaners if the stone is tourmaline, but use caution if it is topaz. Store separately to avoid scratching the gold.
Similar Items
Tiffany & Co. Bean or Open Heart series (visual flow), or contemporary bezel-set gemstone drops. Distinct from 'costume' jewelry which would use glue rather than a gold setting.
Interesting Facts
Pink tourmaline is often associated with compassion and emotional healing. In the 1990s, the combining of geometric cuts like the emerald cut with fluid gold shapes became a staple of 'power jewelry' for women.