AI Appraisal Estimate

This is a vintage costume jewelry set from the mid-20th century, likely the 1950s or 1960s. The set includes a choker-length necklace with a prominent V-shaped dropped fringe draped center and a matching pair of cluster-style stud earrings. The construction features clear, faceted glass rhinestones claw-set into a silver-toned base metal, likely rhodium-plated brass or pot metal, which was common for higher-quality costume jewelry of the era to prevent tarnishing. The necklace is designed with square-cut chatons along the main strand, transitioning into a geometric arrangement of baguette and round-cut stones at the focal point. The earrings appear to be a rounded cluster design. Notable features include a fold-over clasp and decorative end-links that suggest a mid-market manufacturer such as Trifari, Coro, or Lisner, though no visible maker's mark is discernible from this angle. The condition shows minor signs of aging with light surface scratches on the metal plating and a slight yellowing or 'dimming' common in vintage foil-backed rhinestones, but the stones appear mostly intact without significant chips. The craftsmanship displays well-aligned pave and channel setting techniques typical of late Art Deco influences on post-war fashion jewelry.

I have completed a visual inspection of this mid-century clear rhinestone necklace and earring set. Based on the geometric V-shape fringe and the use of baguette and chaton cuts, this set is a classic representation of 'Hollywood Regency' glamour popular between 1950 and 1960. The silver-toned metal, likely rhodium-plated, shows commendable luster, though the noted yellowing in some faceted stones suggests minor moisture infiltration affecting the foil backing—a common condition known as 'greying' that slightly tempers the value. The market for unsigned high-quality costume jewelry remains steady. While pieces by Trifari or Eisenberg command premiums, the craftsmanship here—specifically the claw settings and fold-over clasp—aligns with mid-to-high tier manufacturers like Coro or Kramer. Recent auction comparables for unsigned rhodium-plated bridal sets in similar condition typically realize between $110 and $190. The presence of the original matching earrings significantly bolsters the desirability for collectors and vintage fashion enthusiasts. There are inherent limitations to this digital appraisal. I cannot definitively verify the base metal composition or identify microscopic maker's marks often hidden on the reverse of the clasp. A physical inspection would be required to rule out lead-based pot metal and to confirm that no stones have been replaced with modern acrylic substitutes. Furthermore, testing the foil backing under UV light and checking for 'dead' stones would provide a more precise valuation. For insurance purposes, provenance regarding original packaging or historical purchase records would be highly beneficial.