Vintage Gold Plated Floral Cluster Stud Earring
Earrings (stud, floral cluster) · Yellow gold tone / alloy with heavy dark toning and corrosion
Purity: Gold-plated / Costume metal with potential low-karat flash or wash, under 10K
Type
Earrings (stud, floral cluster)
Purity
Gold-plated / Costume metal with potential low-karat flash or wash, under 10K
Gold Type
Yellow gold tone / alloy with heavy dark toning and corrosion
Weight
Estimated under 1 gram due to small size and lightweight hollow or stamped construction
Description
A small vintage floral cluster stud earring crafted with a textured, scalloped petal design surrounding a central raised element. The piece exhibits heavy tarnish, dark oxidation, and structural wear, suggesting it is composed of base metal with a deteriorated gold-tone plating rather than solid precious gold.
Key Features
Scalloped floral cluster motif, textured petal detailing, single thin post, heavy surface oxidation
Color & Finish
Darkened, oxidized, and heavily tarnished yellow gold tone with a matte textured surface finish
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the provided image due to wear, tarnish, and small scale
Dimensions Estimate
Estimated diameter of approximately 8mm to 10mm with a standard petite fit
Gemstones & Inlays
None, features a textured floral cluster metal motif rather than set gemstones
Clasp & Closure
Standard post closure with a bent or thin wire pin; backing is missing
Chain & Links
Not applicable; single stud earring structure
Craftsmanship Details
Stamped or cast base metal construction with soldered post pin, finished with a decorative floral texture and surface plating.
Authentication Indicators
Dark green or black corrosion spots and flaking plating suggest base metal underneath, indicating gold-plating or costume jewelry rather than solid gold. Professional testing is recommended.
Origin & Maker
Unidentified mass-market or artisan costume jewelry manufacturer
Era & Period
Mid-20th century to late 20th century costume jewelry era
Age Estimate
Circa 1960s-1990s based on general vintage costume jewelry styles
Cultural Significance
Reflects the historical accessibility of decorative floral accessories and costume pieces that democratized fashion trends across decades.
Condition Notes
Poor condition with heavy tarnish, oxidation, surface pitting, and a bent post pin. The gold-tone plating shows significant wear and discoloration.
Value Estimate
Minimal monetary value, primarily sentimental or craft utility, as the intrinsic precious metal content is negligible.
Care & Maintenance
Requires gentle cleaning with a soft, dry microfiber cloth if attempting to remove surface dust; aggressive polishing will strip remaining plating.
Similar Items
Vintage costume earrings, gilt brass floral studs, and retro fashion jewelry components with similar stamped metal designs.
Interesting Facts
Costume jewelry utilizing gold plating gained massive popularity during the mid-20th century as fashionable, affordable alternatives to solid gold fine jewelry.