Antique Vintage Deco Retro 14k White Gold Saltwater Akoya Pearl Cluster Earrings

Description

We have similar Pearl and Retro items, which would pair nicely with this piece, up for auction this week. To view in separate listings, please visit our store and search “Pearl” or “Retro” under our auction items.
Listing description by: Cait P.
The Piece
Auction Estimate:
$1,000 – $2,000
Age Circa:
Retro C. 1940 – 1950
Markings:
“14k” on the earring backings,
tested, and guaranteed
Country of Origin:
Unknown
Brand:
Unknown
Gram Weight:
6.9 grams
Metal Type:
14k white gold
Item Weight Value:
$435.00 (value all-inclusive weight)
Material:
—
Main Stone:
Saltwater Akoya pearl
Main Stone Measurements/Color:
Diameter:
5.55 mm to 6.05 mm
Color:
lustrous cream hue
Accent Stone:
—
Accent Stone Measurements/Color:
—
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:
Naturally rounded and polished
Earring Style:
Cluster
Earring Backing Style:
Clip-on backings. Your local jeweler can easily convert these to the preferred backing style you desire.
For Pierced or Non-Pierced Ears:
Both
Item Measurements:
Length:
0.60″
Width:
0.65″
Depth:
0.35″
Notable Features:
These earrings were handmade during the Retro period of the Art Deco era. Composed of 14k white gold, the earrings feature
stunning saltwater Akoya pearls. The use of such valuable, eye-catching stones
in these earrings is an excellent example of the Hollywood Regency style, which grew to popularity during the Retro period. Eager to show off their wealth and style, Hollywood celebrities and socialites would adorn themselves with glamorous jewelry, usually featuring gorgeous stones and dramatic, bold designs. These earrings were made in the style of Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier and Tiffany designs that were influencing the Hollywood Regency style, making the viewer think of the likes of Ava Gardner and Katharine Hepburn.
Each earring features seven saltwater Akoya pearls for a total of fourteen pearls. As the name suggests, the pearls were hand-harvested off the coast of Japan before being imported to be made into jewelry. The pears are cream in hue and display a
stunning luster when light reflects off their bodies from different angles. To keep the stones secure, they rest in white gold settings, the cool tone of the metal a lovely complement to the pale saltwater Akoya pearls.
The pearls are arranged into floral motifs with the largest pearl in the center surrounded by smaller pearls that serve as the petals. Completing the earrings are white gold clip-on backings which makes them suitable for both pierced and non-pierced ears. The generous use of 14k white gold gives these earrings an impressive item weight value of $435.
A classic example of Hollywood Regency jewelry from the Retro period, these earrings would make a valuable addition to any antique jewelry collection. Don’t miss your chance to preserve this piece of cultural 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 was produced during the 1940s and 1950s and was representative of the bold and changing world that emerged from the Second World War. Retro jewelry is not only illustrative of the energetic and modernizing styles of the 40s and 50s, but it incorporated the elegance and luxury of jewelry styles past. Retro jewelry can frequently be found composed of bright gold, gold alloys, and silver as the wartime put a restriction on the use of platinum. These designs are vibrant and beautiful and are a gorgeous example of the style of the rapidly evolving world.
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.
Akoya saltwater pearls are cultured from the Akoya oyster and can be found primarily in Japan and China. They are known for their beautiful round shape and exquisite luster that sets them apart from many other types of pearls. They are usually white or cream in color but can have rose or silver undertones. During the Art Deco era, Akoya pearls were rare, expensive to own, and reserved for the richest of the rich.
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 + $2.00 per additional gold item & BIN items combine for free
BIN Items:
FREE
Base Shipping:
USPS
First Class
: $8.00 fully insured, estimated 3-5 business days
USPS
Priority Mail
: $12.00 fully insured, estimated 2-3 business days
USPS
Priority Express
: $25.00 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.