Faux Pearl and Pavé Rhinestone Suite (Earrings and Pendant)
Jewelry, Costume Jewelry Set • Unassigned commercial manufacturer (anonymous fashion jewelry house)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Costume Jewelry / Hollywood Regency influence
Medium & Technique
Imitation pearl (likely glass or plastic base with pearlized coating), colorless faceted rhinestones (glass), and cast base metal (likely rhodium-plated or silver-tone alloy) with pavé setting.
Creation Period
Mid-to-Late 20th Century (circa 1950s-1980s)
Dimensions & Format
Small scale accessories; pearls estimated at 8-10mm in diameter; format is a coordinated set for formal wear.
Subject Description
A three-piece demi-parure consisting of a pair of stud-style earrings and a matching pendant. Each piece features a central round cream-colored faux pearl surmounted by a triangular cluster of three small brilliant-cut rhinestones.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; significant wear to the faux pearl nacre and oxidation on the metal settings.
Estimated Market Value
$15 - $40 USD
Auction Estimate
$10 - $25 USD
Provenance History
Likely private collection; representative of mass-market or department store costume jewelry from the mid-20th century.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury during the mid-20th century, where costume jewelry allowed the general public to emulate high-jewelry 'Diamond and Pearl' aesthetic popular in Hollywood film and socialite circles.
Notable Features
Classic 'cluster' design common in the post-war era; the pendant bail features a notched geometric texture indicating a mass-produced casting process.
Condition Issues
Visible peeling and yellowing of the faux pearl coating (nacre), loss of luster, dulling/fogging of the rhinestones due to dirt and moisture, and visible metal oxidation on the pendant bail.
Conservation Recommendations
Gently wipe pearls with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners or jewelry solutions which may strip the delicate pearl coating. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.