Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A striking pair of 1940s Retro Modern clip-on earrings featuring bold, sculptural gold-filled metalwork and vibrant square-cut blue paste stones. These earrings showcase the dramatic, architectural curves and stylized floral motifs that defined American jewelry design during the World War II era.
Story
During World War II, platinum and sterling silver were rationed for the war effort. American jewelers pivoted, using warm gold-filled metals and colorful glass stones to create bold, uplifting designs for women entering the workforce.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, these earrings are highly characteristic of prominent mid-century American costume jewelry manufacturers such as Van Dell, Carl-Art, or Hayward. These workshops specialized in high-quality gold-filled jewelry, bringing affordable luxury and exceptional craftsmanship to the mainstream market.
Condition & Value
The earrings appear to be in excellent vintage condition with minimal wear to the gold-filled surface. The blue paste stones are bright and free of major chips, and the clip mechanisms appear functional. Excellent preservation of the gold finish helps maintain the higher end of the value range.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.