Versace Gold-Plated Medusa Tribute Aviator Sunglasses With Medallion Temples
Eyewear/Sunglasses · Yellow Gold (High Polish Finish). The plating exhibits the classic rich, warm hue characteristic of high-karat yellow gold plating used in high-end fashion accessories.
Purity: 24K Gold Plated (estimated thickness ~0.5 to 1.0 microns). This is not solid gold, but a thin layer of high-purity gold electroplated over a base metal (typically stainless steel or nickel-silver alloy).
Type
Eyewear/Sunglasses
Purity
24K Gold Plated (estimated thickness ~0.5 to 1.0 microns). This is not solid gold, but a thin layer of high-purity gold electroplated over a base metal (typically stainless steel or nickel-silver alloy).
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High Polish Finish). The plating exhibits the classic rich, warm hue characteristic of high-karat yellow gold plating used in high-end fashion accessories.
Weight
Total weight: 35-45 grams. Gold weight: The gold content is negligible for melt value purposes, likely representing less than 0.01% of the total component mass.
Description
These Versace aviator sunglasses represent the pinnacle of Italian 'Bold Gold' fashion. Featuring an oversized, modified square frame with dark-tinted lenses, the design is defined by the temple medallions featuring the house's signature Medusa icon. The high-polish gold plating provides a luxurious contrast against the black enameled discs, resulting in a piece that is as much a piece of jewelry as it is functional eyewear.
Key Features
3D Medusa medallion on the temple, triple-pronged 'claw' settings holding the lenses, and the 'Gold-Tone' finish that mimics 24K jewelry.
Color & Finish
High-polish mirror finish on the frame and temple bars. The yellow is vibrant and saturated, designed to evoke the opulence of the Medusa Tribute collection. There is slight surface micro-scratching on the temple arm.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The 'VERSACE' brand stamp is visible on the interior of the temple arm (partially obscured) and on the leatherette case. The iconic Medusa head logo is cast in relief on the temple disc. No karat stamps are present because the item is plated, not solid gold.
Dimensions Estimate
Frame width: ~145mm; Temple length: ~140mm; Lens width: ~60mm; Bridge: ~14mm. Oversized aviator/square Hybrid fit.
Gemstones & Inlays
Black acetate or resin circular disc inlay on the temples, featuring a metallic Medusa bust. No natural gemstones are present; the Medallion serves as the primary decorative element.
Clasp & Closure
Integrated barrel hinges connecting the temple to the frame front. The hinge appears to be a standard spring-loaded or fixed high-end optical hinge with gold-tone hardware.
Chain & Links
N/A - Rigid framework. Solid wire temples with a flat-profile center section to support the decorative medallion.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-stamped metal components with a high-grade electroplating process. The lens-mounting system uses a unique claw-grip design which requires high manufacturing tolerances compared to standard wire-rim frames.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the Medusa head, quality of the hinge soldering, crispness of the 'VERSACE' stamping on the case, and the specific tint of the gold plating. Red flags for fakes would include visible casting lines or greening of the metal (verdigris).
Origin & Maker
Italy. Made by Luxottica for Versace. Versace is a premier Italian luxury fashion house known for its 'Barocco' and neo-classical aesthetic.
Era & Period
Contemporary (current 'Tribute' aesthetic reviving 1990s Gianni Versace boldness). Stylistic indicators include the oversized geometric frame and large branding elements.
Age Estimate
Produced circa 2018-2023. This model reflects the recent trend of re-issuing heritage designs with modern polycarbonate lenses.
Cultural Significance
Versace gold eyewear became a cultural icon in the 1990s through associations with artists like The Notorious B.I.G., symbolizing wealth, excessive luxury, and the 'more is more' philosophy of Italian fashion.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The frames show minimal wear; lenses appear clear without major gouges; hinges appear straight. Minor oxidation or polish loss may eventually occur on high-friction areas of the temples. Grade: 9/10.
Value Estimate
Melt Value: $0.00. Retail Value: $300 - $450 USD. Secondary Market/Resale Value: $150 - $275 USD. Value is based entirely on brand prestige and condition, not precious metal tonnage.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid acidic cleaners. Clean lenses with microfiber only. Keep in the provided hard case to prevent the gold plating from rubbing off against other surfaces. Avoid salt water and chlorine, which will pit the plating.
Similar Items
Cazal 607 'Legends' series, Gucci GG oversized aviators, or vintage 1990s Gianni Versace 420 Series. The Versace pieces are generally distinguished by the specific Medusa iconography.
Interesting Facts
The Medusa head was chosen by Gianni Versace as she represents 'fatal attraction'—anyone who falls in love with her cannot turn back. This logo has become synonymous with 90s hip-hop culture and high-glamour aesthetics.