Preliminary identification

Mid-Century Aurora Borealis and Emerald Glass Sunburst Shoe Clips

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

A striking pair of vintage shoe clips featuring a sunburst or 'fan' arrangement of emerald-green marquise-cut glass stones. The center is anchored by a large Aurora Borealis (AB) chaton rhinestone, which reflects a spectrum of blues and purples.

Story

Post-war fashion demanded versatility. These clips allowed a woman to transform a simple pair of day pumps into shimmering evening wear instantly. The AB coating was a 1955 collaboration between Dior and Swarovski.

Maker / Origin

While unsigned, these reflect the high-quality 'costume' tradition of companies like Trifari or Coro. During this era, jewelry wasn't just for the neck or ears; accessories for shoes and hats were essential for a coordinated look.

Condition & Value

The stones appear bright with no visible 'dead' or darkened rhinestones. The gold-tone plating shows very little wear or pitting. Excellent preservation of the tension in the clips. Vintage shoe clips are a niche but steady market.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.