Antique Vintage Deco Retro 18k Gold Rhodochrosite South Sea Pearl Drop Earrings

Description

We have similar Retro and
Rhodochrosite
items, which would pair nicely with this piece, up for auction this week.
To view in separate listings, please visit our store and search "Retro" or "
Rhodochrosite
" under our auction items.
Listing description by: Dayna M.
The Piece
Auction Estimate:
,000 - ,000
Age Circa:
Retro C. 1940 - 1950
Markings:
"14KT" and unknown pictorial makers mark on the omega backs of the earrings, tested, and guaranteed
Country of Origin:
Unknown
Brand:
Unknown
Gram Weight:
4.4 grams
Metal Type:
18k yellow gold
Item Weight Value:
0.00 (value all-inclusive weight)
Material:
--
Main Stone:
Rhodochrosite
Main Stone Measurements/Color:
Total carat weight:
10.46 carats
Diameter:
8.15 mm
Color:
Semi translucent light pink hues with white veining
Accent Stone:
S
outh sea pearl
Accent Stone Measurements/Color:
Diameter:
8.15 mm
Color:
lustrous white hue
Stone Treatment:
The stone(s) appear to be untreated, but we are not certified gemologists. Stone(s) have been tested and guaranteed using a professional Presidium Duo refractive, heat, and hardness tester.
Stone Cuts:
Carved and polished cabochon rhodochrosite, naturally round and polished pearls
Earring Style:
Drop/dangle
Earring Backing Style:
Omega backings. Your local jeweler can easily convert these to the preferred backing style you desire.
For Pierced or Non-Pierced Ears:
Pierced
Item Measurements:
Length:
1.61"
Width:
0.31"
Notable Features:
These earrings were handmade during the Retro period of the Art Deco era. Composed of 18k yellow gold, the earrings feature beautiful rhodochrosite and south sea pearls. The use of such large, lustrous pearls in these earrings are an excellent example of the Hollywood Regency style, which rose to popularity during the Retro period. Eager to show off their wealth and style, Hollywood celebrities and socialites during this time would adorn themselves with glamorous jewelry, usually featuring large and beautiful stones. These earrings were made in the style of Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier, and Tiffany designs that influenced the Hollywood Regency style, making the viewer think of the likes of Ava Gardner and Katharine Hepburn.
Each earring features a rhodochrosite pink bead and South Sea pearl, which, as the name suggests, would have been hand-harvested in the south sea before being imported to be made into jewelry. The pearls are white in hue and display a stunning luster as light reflects off their round bodies from different angles. Both of the stones were drilled at the top and set on yellow gold bar accents that dangle from the earring backings.
The earrings are completed with omega backings which makes them suitable for pierced ears. A lovely modern tribute to the Gatsby-style jewelry of the Art Deco era, these earrings would make a valuable addition to any antique jewelry collection. Don't miss your chance to become a part of these earrings' history.
Damage:
Age appropriate wear.
*This listing is for the item only. All display boxes and/or photography props do not come with your purchase.*
The History
Retro jewelry refers to pieces created in the 1940s and 1950s. This was a period during which jewelry designers were largely influenced by the changes stemming from World War II. These designs reflect an infusion of futuristic vision with elements inspired by preceding periods, encompassing a variety of gemstones, shapes, and materials. Materials used commonly in Retro jewelry are gold, gold alloys, and silver as the wartime put a restriction on the use of platinum. Designs can be masculine, geometric and modern, or softer, more feminine and floral.
The Hollywood Regency style came into fashion during the 1930s, ushered along by the Golden Age of Hollywood. This style was heralded by bright, contrasting colors and modernization of the opulence of Baroque styles, featuring a deliberately frivolous extravagance that screamed glitz and glamour. “Big girls need big diamonds” was taken to heart, and the gorgeous Hollywood stars decked themselves appropriately, with blindingly glittering jewels to showcase their lives of luxury.
South Sea saltwater pearls during the Art Deco era would have just started being imported from China into the western world. South Sea saltwater pearls have long been considered some of the finest pearls in the world and were usually reserved for the best pieces of jewelry. South Sea saltwater pearls are large and luminous and can come in overtones of pink, green, and blue.
Domestic US
: All items ship within one business day of receiving payment. Buyers will have 3 base shipping options to choose from, depending on the needed speed of delivery. Pricing on single and multi-purchase transactions can be seen below:
Auction Items:
Base shipping + .00 per additional gold item & BIN items combine for free
BIN Items:
FREE
Base Shipping:
USPS
First Class
: .00 fully insured, estimated 3-5 business days
USPS
Priority Mail
: .00 fully insured, estimated 2-3 business days
USPS
Priority Express
: .00 fully insured, overnight delivery
International
: All packages are sent via USPS and pricing is based on buyer location. Each customer will receive a revised invoice at the close of the auction with an updated shipping rate. We will combine shipping on multiple purchases for free.
We do not undervalue packages for customs, please do not ask us to do so. What you pay is what we will claim on your customs form.
Please take this into consideration before placing your bid.
PayPal only. After 4 days of non-payment, an automated unpaid item case will be opened by our eBay system. If you need extra time for payment, please contact us prior to bidding.
If you find yourself not wanting to risk losing this piece during an auction, we will entertain Buy It Now offers. However, we will not accept any offers in the 24 hours prior to an auction ending. Please message us with your best offer, and if accepted, we will add a Buy It Now option to this piece for you.