Modernist sterling silver and abalone shell drop earrings

This pair of earrings features a modernist, boxy design characterized by square-shaped sterling silver housings inset with natural abalone shell. The abalone displays a high degree of iridescence with swirling patterns of green, blue, silver, and cream hues. Each earring is accented with three silver granules or 'spheres' of graduated sizes attached to one side of the square bezel, adding a geometric flair typical of mid-century or artisanal contemporary jewelry styles. The earrings are constructed with shepherd’s hook (French wire) style ear wires for pierced ears. The silver metal shows a notable tarnish and dark patina, particularly around the bead accents and the crevices of the bezel, which suggests some age and the presence of sulfur in the environment. The shell inlays appear well-fitted but show some surface dullness, possibly from wear or soap residue. There are no clearly visible maker's marks or fineness stamps like '925' from this angle, though they are likely hand-fabricated given the asymmetrical application of the beads. The overall craftsmanship indicates a studio jewelry origin, likely spanning from the late 1960s to the 1990s.