Vintage Gold-Toned Textured Cushion-Back Clip-On Earring
Earrings (Clip-on) · Yellow Gold plating or brass-based alloy with a warm, deep brassy tone.
Purity: Likely Gold-Plated or Costume Base Metal; lacks visible 10K/14K/18K gold hallmarks. Appearances suggest it is not solid gold.
Type
Earrings (Clip-on)
Purity
Likely Gold-Plated or Costume Base Metal; lacks visible 10K/14K/18K gold hallmarks. Appearances suggest it is not solid gold.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating or brass-based alloy with a warm, deep brassy tone.
Weight
4-7 grams per earring; feels substantial but likely composed of non-precious base metals.
Description
A classic piece of vintage costume jewelry, this earring features an oval cushion silhouette. The center is deeply textured with vertical striations, surrounded by a smooth, polished gold-toned border that creates a sophisticated contrast. The piece utilizes a traditional clip-on mechanism, making it a versatile accessory for any collector of retro fashion.
Key Features
Contrasting textures (polished vs. bark finish), oval button shape, and robust mechanical clip.
Color & Finish
Deep yellow gold color with a heavy patina and 'bark' or Florentine textured surface finish. High-polish outer rim with a matte/textured center.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible on the back plate or clip; there may be a signature on the interior of the clip arm or the reverse of the primary plate currently obscured.
Dimensions Estimate
Approx. 20mm height x 15mm width (standard oversized button earring size).
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible; the design relies on metal texture and relief rather than stones.
Clasp & Closure
V-spring hinge clip-on mechanism with a paddle-shaped tension arm. Typical for vintage costume jewelry to accommodate non-pierced ears.
Chain & Links
N/A (Solid plate construction with a mechanical hinge).
Craftsmanship Details
Likely die-struck or cast base metal with an electroplated gold finish. The clip is riveted or spot-welded to the main body with standard industrial precision.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of numeric fineness stamps (e.g., 585, 750) suggests it is costume jewelry. The slight greenish tint in shadowed crevices often indicates copper-based alloys under gold plating.
Origin & Maker
Likely US or European mass-market costume manufacturer (e.g., Monet, Trifari, or Napier) given the construction style.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern to 1980s Retro design; characterized by bold textures and clip-on styles popular during these decades.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1985; consistent with the peak popularity of textured gold-plate clip earrings.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Bold Gold' movement in 20th-century fashion, where jewelry was used as a powerful visual statement for the modern working woman.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Minor surface oxidation/tarnish near the hinge and base. Some minor scratches on the polished rim. Hinge appears functional. Grade: Good.
Value Estimate
Resale market value: $15 - $35 USD. Value is primarily in aesthetic/collectible merit rather than precious metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid moisture, perfumes, and hairspray which will strip the plating. Clean with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Do not use chemical jewelry cleaners.
Similar Items
Monet 'Estate' collection earrings, vintage Trifari gold-tone textured hoops, or 1980s Chanel-style button earrings.
Interesting Facts
Clip-on earrings were the dominant fastener type for women from the 1920s through the 1960s, as pierced ears were often culturally viewed as 'improper' in Western society during that time.