Versace Medusa Biggie Gold-Toned Eyewear with 18K/24K Gold-Plated Accents
Eyewear / Sunglasses · Yellow Gold finish via electroplating; alloyed with copper and zinc for the bright golden aesthetic.
Purity: Gold-Plated/Toned Base Metal; decorative Medusa emblem typically features a thin layer of 18K or 24K gold plating (approximately 0.1% to 0.5% gold content by weight).
Type
Eyewear / Sunglasses
Purity
Gold-Plated/Toned Base Metal; decorative Medusa emblem typically features a thin layer of 18K or 24K gold plating (approximately 0.1% to 0.5% gold content by weight).
Gold Type
Yellow Gold finish via electroplating; alloyed with copper and zinc for the bright golden aesthetic.
Weight
35-45 grams (total weight including lenses and tortoise-shell tips); negligible gold weight due to plating.
Description
This iconic piece of luxury eyewear represents the pinnacle of Versace's bold aesthetic. Featuring the signature gold-toned Medusa head encased in a black circular medallion on the temples, these sunglasses are a status symbol favored by celebrities. The contrast between the brilliant yellow gold finish and the dark lenses creates a high-impact, extravagant look typical of the Italian fashion house.
Key Features
3D Medusa head emblem, wide structural temples, thick rims, and tortoise-shell ear tips representing the 'Biggie' style.
Color & Finish
Brilliant high-polish yellow gold tone with a smooth mirror-like surface on the temples and a three-dimensional molded Medusa icon.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected markings on inner temples (not visible in image) usually include 'VERSACE', 'MADE IN ITALY', and a serial number/model ID (likely Mod. 4361 or similar). No solid gold purity stamps visible.
Dimensions Estimate
Temple length approximately 140mm; circular medallion diameter approximately 18mm; eye size 53-56mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
No precious gemstones; features a black acetate or resin circular inlay surrounding the central gold-toned Medusa head.
Clasp & Closure
Precision spring or barrel hinges at the temple joints; tortoise-shell acetate tips for comfort behind the ears.
Chain & Links
N/A; structural temples are solid-bar style with prong-set medallions.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality Italian assembly; the medallion is securely fastened with four prongs and the Medusa head shows high-relief detail typical of precision casting.
Authentication Indicators
The crispness of the Medusa mold, the quality of the hinge soldering, and the consistent color of the plating are consistent with authentic Versace production. Note: Lack of weight or '750' stamps indicates these are high-end fashion jewelry, not solid gold investment pieces.
Origin & Maker
Italy; manufactured by Luxottica for Versace. The Versace brand is known for bold, Greco-Roman inspired luxury.
Era & Period
Contemporary High-Fashion; inspired by the 1990s Hip-Hop 'Notorious B.I.G.' era revival.
Age Estimate
Circa 2018-2023 (Modern reissue of a classic 1990s aesthetic).
Cultural Significance
A symbol of 'Nouveau Riche' and streetwear luxury, bridging the gap between high-end Italian craftsmanship and urban pop culture.
Condition Notes
Very Good; the gold-toned finish appears intact without significant brassing or green oxidation, though minor micro-scratches are visible on the metal surface.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD retail/resale value. No significant melt value as it is gold-plated base metal; value is entirely in brand equity and design.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid abrasive cleaners which strip plating; clean with a microfiber cloth and diluted soap. Store in the provided hard case to prevent bending the metal temples.
Similar Items
Cazal 607 sunglasses, Cartier Panthere eyewear (which often uses solid 18K gold), and Gucci Aviators with GG logos.
Interesting Facts
This specific style became historically significant in pop culture because they were the signature frame worn by rapper The Notorious B.I.G. in the mid-1990s.