Vintage Sterling Silver and Mother-of-Pearl Dangle Earrings

This item is a pair of vintage dangle earrings, likely crafted from sterling silver given their oxidized appearance and common design motifs for such jewelry. Each earring features a teardrop-shaped inlay of iridescent mother-of-pearl, exhibiting a play of colors including cream, pink, green, and blue hues, indicating quality shell. The mother-of-pearl is set within an ornate, stylized fan or bell-shaped silver frame. The silverwork is highly detailed, featuring a combination of techniques including filigree-like scrolls and small silver spheres (beading or granulation), which decorate the perimeter and accent the central mother-of-pearl piece. The bottom section of each earring is particularly elaborate, with fan-like segments radiating outwards, each terminating in a small silver bead. The overall design suggests a Southwestern, Mexican, or artisanal folk art influence. The earrings utilize a screw-back closure mechanism, indicating an older manufacturing period, likely pre-1960s, as pierced ears became more prevalent later. The silver exhibits a noticeable dark patination, especially in the recessed areas, which adds depth to the design but also suggests age and possibly a lack of recent polishing. There are no immediate visible signs of damage, such as cracks in the shell or bent silverwork, but a closer inspection would be needed to confirm. The craftsmanship appears to be good quality, with careful attention to detail in the silver forming and stone setting.