Vintage Turquoise and Black Swirl Cabochon Bracelet and Earring Set

This is a vintage jewelry set consisting of a bracelet and a pair of clip-on earrings. Both pieces feature striking hexagonal-shaped cabochons with a unique turquoise blue and black swirled pattern, reminiscent of marbled or slag glass, or possibly a type of resin or plastic such as Lucite or Bakelite. The cabochons are set into silver-tone metal bezels that are intricately detailed with a rope-twist border surrounding each stone. The metalwork features an open-back design behind the cabochons, with repeating rope-twist links connecting the distinct segments of the bracelet and forming the back of the earring settings. The bracelet is composed of five individual hexagonal links joined together, creating a substantial and articulated piece. The earrings are smaller, single hexagonal units, presumed to be clip-on style based on typical vintage designs of this nature. The overall condition appears good for its age, showing some signs of wear consistent with vintage costume jewelry, such as minor surface scratches on the cabochons or slight tarnishing on the metal, though these are not distinctly visible in the provided image. The craftsmanship suggests a mid-20th-century aesthetic, likely dating from the 1950s to 1970s, characterized by bold designs and the use of colorful, patterned composite materials. The quality indicators point to a mass-produced costume jewelry set; however, the striking color combination and geometric form contribute to its unique appeal.

I have virtually examined this Vintage Turquoise and Black Swirl Cabochon Bracelet and Earring Set based on the provided image and description. The set presents as a charming example of mid-20th-century costume jewelry, likely dating from the 1950s to 1970s. The hexagonal cabochons with their striking turquoise and black swirl pattern are the focal point, encased in silver-tone metal bezels featuring a rope-twist border and open-back design. The connecting links on both the bracelet and earrings echo this rope-twist motif, suggesting a cohesive design. Condition appears good for its age, consistent with typical vintage costume pieces, though I cannot ascertain minor surface scratches, tarnishing, or structural integrity without a physical inspection. Authenticity, in terms of its vintage costume jewelry origin, seems highly probable from the visual cues. The materials—likely a resin, Lucite, or early plastic for the cabochons, and a base metal for the settings—are consistent with mass-produced costume jewelry of that era. Without an in-person examination, I cannot definitively confirm the material composition of the cabochons (e.g., distinguishing between different types of plastic or slag glass) or assess the metal's exact composition (e.g., silver-plated vs. pot metal). A scratch test or spectroscopic analysis would be required for precise material identification. Furthermore, an in-hand inspection would allow me to check for maker's marks, which are absent in the provided image and could significantly impact value if a known designer were identified. Market conditions for vintage costume jewelry remain steady, with unique designs and good condition fetching fair prices. Comparables for similar mid-century plastic or resin-cabochon sets from unbranded manufacturers typically range from $60 to $150. While not rare, the bold color combination and geometric design lend a certain uniqueness that enhances its appeal. Demand is moderate, driven by collectors and individuals seeking distinctive vintage accessories. The lack of a designer signature and the common materials limit higher valuation. Given these factors, I would place an appraisal value on this set at $75-125.