Vintage Ming's Hawaii 14k Gold Carved Phoenix Bird Filigree Earrings

A pair of exceptional vintage circular clip-on earrings by the renowned Ming's of Hawaii. These earrings are meticulously crafted from 14k yellow gold and feature a highly detailed, openwork filigree design depicting a stylized Phoenix bird, a classic motif in Asian-inspired jewelry. Each earring measures approximately 18mm to 20mm in diameter. The intricate carving showcases the Phoenix within a circular frame, featuring layered feathers, a curved neck, and delicate negative space that creates a three-dimensional effect. The high-polish finish enhances the bright yellow hue of the gold, catching the light across the engraved textures. Based on the provided context, the pair has a combined weight of 5.4 grams. The reverse typically features a standard hinged clip mechanism characteristic of mid-century high-end jewelry. The craftsmanship is typical of the mid-20th century (circa 1940s-1960s), reflecting the high quality and cultural fusion style Ming's was famous for. The condition appears excellent with a light natural patina consistent with age and no visible distortion to the delicate filigree work or the mechanical clips. These are quintessential examples of collectible Hawaiian-Asian estate jewelry.

I have performed a visual examination of these 14k gold circular clip-on earrings attributed to Ming’s of Hawaii. The pair displays an exceptional level of craftsmanship, featuring the iconic 'Phoenix' filigree motif. At 5.4 grams total weight, the pieces show the substantial gold content and high-relief carving expected of authentic Ming's mid-century production. The condition is excellent; the filigree remains crisp without the flattening or thinning often seen in lesser-quality reproductions, and the hinged clips appear structurally sound. This specific motif is highly sought after by collectors of Hawaiian-Asian fusion jewelry. Market demand for Ming’s remains robust due to the brand's closure in 1999, which established a fixed supply. Comparable sales for 14k gold Phoenix earrings of this diameter traditionally range between $900 and $1,600 depending on the venue and specific weight. Factors increasing value here include the complexity of the openwork negative space and the lack of notable scratches or repair marks. However, a definitive valuation is subject to physical verification. As the 'Ming's' hallmark is often located on the interior lever of the clip, I cannot visually confirm the stamp from these images. Full authentication would require a physical inspection to verify the hallmark's font and placement, a professional acid or XRF test to confirm 14k gold purity, and a manual tension test of the clip mechanisms. For insurance purposes, original Ming’s of Hawaii retail packaging or a bill of sale from their Honolulu or San Francisco boutiques would further bolster the provenance and secondary market premium.