Vintage Filigree Flower and Faux Pearl Drop Earring

This is a vintage circular costume jewelry earring featuring a multi-layered floral design. The base is constructed from an antiqued, bronze-tone filigree metal with scalloped petal edges. The secondary layer contains a set of small, cream-colored faux pearls arranged in a halo around a central medallion. The centerpiece is a domed, open-work filigree disk with a wheel-like geometric pattern. Suspended from the bottom of the main body is a singular teardrop-shaped faux pearl, capped with matching decorative metalwork. The item measures approximately 1.5 inches in total length. Based on the style of the filigree and the yellowing of the faux pearls, the piece likely dates to the mid-20th century (c. 1950s-1960s). The metal shows significant signs of age with a dark patina and some accumulated dust/residue in the recessed areas. The faux pearls exhibit some loss of luster and potential surface wear consistent with age. There are no visible maker's marks on the front; the clasp mechanism on the reverse is not visible in this image to determine if it is a clip-on or screw-back, common for this era.

I have conducted a visual examination of the vintage filigree and faux pearl drop earrings. Based on the construction methods—specifically the layered open-work metal and the teardrop pearl cap—the design is consistent with mid-20th-century costume jewelry, likely dating between 1950 and 1965. The piece exhibits a heavy patina on the bronze-tone metal and visible loss of nacre/luster on the faux pearls, which I have factored into the valuation as 'fair to good' vintage condition. The market for unsigned costume jewelry from this era is currently driven by the 'cottagecore' and 'vintage-glam' fashion trends. However, because this item lacks a maker’s mark (such as Miriam Haskell or Trifari), it is categorized as a mass-market decorative piece rather than a high-end collectible. Comparable sales of unsigned mid-century filigree earrings typically fall within the $15 to $35 range depending on the functionality of the clasp. A significant limitation of this appraisal is the inability to examine the reverse side. Determining if the earrings are clip-on, screw-back, or later conversions to pierced posts is essential for a final market value. Furthermore, a physical inspection is required to determine the base metal composition; while the appearance suggests a non-precious alloy, testing would rule out gold-filled status. Authentic valuation of vintage costume jewelry also depends on examining the adhesive or wiring used in the assembly. To confirm these findings, I would recommend an in-person inspection of the findings and a cleaning to see if the 'patina' is intentional antiquing or environmental corrosion which could further devalue the piece.