Red Cabochon Earrings Appraisal

Vintage-Style Clip-On Earring with Red Cabochon

This item is a single clip-on earring featuring an antique-inspired design. The main body of the earring appears to be constructed from a brass or bronze-toned metal, showing a rich, aged patina consistent with older pieces. The top portion of the earring, which serves as the clip mechanism, is adorned with an ornate, stylized floral or Fleru-de-lis motif, textured with tiny raised dots or granulation, signaling a decorative and perhaps Victorian or Edwardian aesthetic influence. Below this clip, a short chain link connects to a teardrop or oval-shaped bezel-set red cabochon. The cabochon exhibits a deep, translucent ruby-red color with a smooth, polished surface, and some subtle internal characteristics or inclusions can be glimpsed, suggesting it might be a glass or a less precious gemstone like garnet or aventurine glass. The metal setting around the cabochon is simple, yet securely holds the stone. There are visible signs of wear, including darkening and some minor surface abrasions on the metal, indicative of age and use, but no significant damage like cracks or breaks. The overall craftsmanship appears to be commercial grade, common for costume jewelry of an earlier era. The clip mechanism is visible from the back, and while not fully detailed, it seems to be a standard spring-loaded clip, functioning to secure the earring without piercing. The item’s style suggests a mid-20th century or earlier period, possibly 1940s-1970s, though its design harks back to earlier art nouveau or revival styles. No specific maker's marks or signatures are discernible from the provided image.