Vintage Carved Bone or Early Plastic Scalloped Earring

This item is a single vintage earring featuring an oval, domed profile with deep horizontal grooves that create a tiered or scalloped visual effect. The material appears to be either carved animal bone, ivory, or an early cellulose-based plastic such as Bakelite or Celluloid, given its creamy off-white color and smooth, slightly matte luster. The construction shows precision in the carving, with uniform spacing between the ridges. Its style is indicative of the Art Deco or Mid-Century Modern periods (circa 1930s-1950s), where geometric shapes and architectural textures were popular in costume jewelry. Physically, the piece rests on what appears to be a metal post, suggesting it is a stud-style earring. Upon close inspection, the surface shows a slight patina consistent with age, though it remains in good condition without visible cracks or significant chips. There are no immediate visible maker's marks on the front face, which is common for such artisanal or commercially produced molded pieces of the era. The craftsmanship is high, evidenced by the symmetry of the scalloped tiers and the high polish of the domed top section.

I have conducted a visual examination of this single vintage scalloped earring. The piece exhibits characteristic traits of mid-20th-century costume jewelry, specifically the Art Deco Revival or early Mid-Century Modern periods. The craftsmanship shows high-quality rhythmic carving or molding, with the 'creamy' patina suggesting either a natural organic material or a refined early plastic like Celluloid. The symmetry and luster are well-preserved, showing minimal wear consistent with age. Market demand for monochromatic, architectural jewelry remains steady among vintage enthusiasts; however, the value is significantly tempered by the fact that this is a single earring rather than a complete pair, which reduces its utility primarily to a 'lost and found' replacement piece or a component for repurposing. There are significant limitations in appraising this item from images alone. Without a physical 'hot needle' test, a 'Simichrome' test, or a microscopic inspection for Schreger lines (cross-hatching), I cannot definitively distinguish between ivory, carved bone, or early polymers. The presence of a metal post indicates a likely 1940s-50s conversion or origin. For firm authentication, I would require an in-person examination to verify density and pore structure. If proven to be genuine ivory, its value would be subject to strict CITES regulations and regional trade laws, which could render it unsellable in some markets. If confirmed as high-quality Bakelite, the value would sit at the higher end of the provided range.