Yellow Gold and Turquoise Oval Cabochon Hoop Earrings

A pair of decorative hoop earrings featuring a three-row openwork design. Each earring is crafted from a polished yellow metal, likely 14k or 18k yellow gold, though no hallmark is visible in the provided image. The design consists of three parallel gold bands connected by six bezel-set, oval-cut turquoise stones arranged in a staggered formation across the width of the hoop. The turquoise displays a vibrant, consistent robin's egg blue hue with minimal visible matrix, suggesting high-quality Sleeping Beauty or similar high-grade stone. The earrings appear to be small to medium-sized J-hoops or huggie-style, appearing approximately 15mm-20mm in diameter with a substantial width of roughly 8mm. The construction shows fine craftsmanship with smooth bezel settings and well-finished rounded bands. Condition-wise, the gold surface shows light micro-scratches consistent with gentle wear, but no significant denting or repair work is evident. The stones appear secure and free of cracks or discoloration. Based on the aesthetic and stone setting technique, these earrings likely date from the late 20th century, approximately the 1980s or 1990s, showcasing a style that blends Southwestern influences with modern fine jewelry elegance.

Upon my visual examination of these yellow gold and turquoise triple-row hoop earrings, I find them to be characteristic of high-quality late 20th-century fine jewelry, likely produced between 1985 and 1995. The twelve bezel-set oval turquoise cabochons exhibit the coveted 'robin’s egg' blue hue associated with the Sleeping Beauty mine; the lack of visible matrix and consistent saturation significantly elevates the value. The 14k/18k yellow gold openwork construction appears robust, though the absence of a visible hallmark suggests it may be located on the post or interior curvature. The condition is excellent, showing only minor surface wear and no signs of stone thinning or stabilization failure. Current market demand for vintage bold gold jewelry remains high, particularly for pieces incorporating high-grade turquoise which has seen a price surge due to mine closures. Comparables for similar weight and stone quality in luxury boutiques range from $1,500 to $2,200. Limitations: This appraisal is based on photographic evidence. A definitive valuation requires a physical inspection to confirm gold karatage via touchstone testing, verify the stones are natural rather than reconstituted or dyed using microscopic analysis, and confirm total gram weight. Documentation of provenance or a designer hallmark (such as Tiffany & Co. or a known Southwestern master) would further increase the premium.