estateRUTH.

Preliminary identification

MESRI Black Enamel & Pave Crystal Swirl Earrings

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A striking pair of 'power dressing' era earrings featuring a dynamic interlocking swirl of glossy jet-black enamel and a crescent of pave-set brilliant crystals. These pieces exemplify the bold, graphic aesthetic of late 20th-century high-end costume jewelry, designed to transition seamlessly from the boardroom to a black-tie gala.

Story

The 1980s and 90s saw the rise of the 'Power Suit,' and jewelry like this was the essential finishing touch. The black-and-gold palette was the ultimate symbol of sophisticated authority. This specific brand, MESRI, likely originated as a boutique label in the Middle Eastern or Japanese luxury markets, where this tailored, high-contrast style was highly coveted.

Maker / Origin

While MESRI is a rarer name in Western markets, it is associated with regional luxury boutiques that specialized in high-quality costume jewelry and accessories. The brand name itself, often found in the Middle East (where 'Misri' translates to 'Egyptian'), suggests a heritage of elegance and international trade.

Condition & Value

The earrings appear to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible loss of crystals or chipping to the enamel. The gold-tone plating retains a high luster. Excellent condition in vintage costume jewelry significantly preserves value, as enamel repairs are difficult to execute invisibly.

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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

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD