Antique Vintage Deco Retro 18k 14k Gold Brutalist Lapis Lazuli Cluster Earrings

Description

We have similar Brutalist and Retro items, which would pair nicely with this piece, up for auction this week. To view in separate listings, please visit our store and search "Brutalist" or "Retro" under our auction items.
Item Description by: Angela A.
The Piece
Auction Estimate:
,000 - ,000
Age Circa:
Retro C. 1940 -1950
Markings:
"14k" on the post backings of the earrings (earrings are 18k); "Sterling" on one butterfly backing,
tested, and guaranteed
Country of Origin:
Unknown
Brand:
Unknown
Gram Weight:
7.7 grams
Metal Type:
18k yellow gold earrings, 14k yellow gold post backings, base metal bullet backing, .925 sterling silver butterfly backing
Item Weight Value:
0.00 (value all-inclusive weight)
Material:
--
Main Stone:
Lapis lazuli
Main Stone Measurements/Color:
Carat weight:
4.66 carats
Length:
9.1 mm & 9.44 mm
Width
: 6.6 mm & 6.76 mm
Depth:
4.68 mm & 5.3 mm
Color:
opaque deep blue hue with mottled lighter blue hues and gold-hued speckling
Accent Stone:
--
Accent Stone Measurements/Color:
--
Stone Treatment:
The stone(s) appear to be untreated, but we are not certified gemologists. Stone(s) have been tested and guaranteed using a professional Presidium Duo refractive, heat, and hardness tester.
Stone Cuts:
Carved and polished oval cabochon
Earring Style:
Cluster
Earring Backing Style:
Posts with one bullet backing and rubber stopper, and one sterling silver butterfly backing. Your local jeweler can easily convert these to the preferred backing style you desire.
For Pierced or Non-Pierced Ears:
Pierced
Item Measurements:
Length:
0.71"
Width:
0.64"
Notable Features:
These earrings were handmade during the Retro period of the Art Deco era. Composed of 18k and 14k yellow gold, the earrings feature
stunning l
apis lazuli stones,
as well as a design inspired by early Brutalism. The Brutalist style first emerged in the later years of the Retro period before rising to prominence during the subsequent Mid Century era. Inspired by the architectural style of the same name, Brutalist jewelry featured bold, dramatic designs that often incorporated organic, freeform designs inspired by the natural world.
Each earring features a huge lapis lazuli stone which contains a deep blue hue and displays the gold speckling so prized in this variety of stone. The stones were expertly carved into oval, domed cabochons which beautifully display the stones' hues. 18k yellow gold fancy prong settings securely hold the stones, the vibrant hue of the yellow gold a striking contrast to the deeper, cooler hue of the lapis lazuli. Eye-catching, textured, branch-like designs flow on each side of the stones, making these earrings perfect examples of early Brutalist style.
The earrings are completed with 14k yellow gold posts, one base metal bullet backing with a rubber stopper, and one sterling silver butterfly backing. The generous amount of 18k and 14k gold used in the earrings gives them an impressive item weight value of 0.
A classic example of Hollywood Regency jewelry from the Retro period, these earrings would make a valuable addition to any antique jewelry collection. Don't miss your chance to preserve this piece of cultural history.
Damage:
Age appropriate wear. The earrings' backings do not match; while this does not affect wear, a matching pair can be purchased from your local jeweler or most department stores, if desired. There appears to be three prong setting at the top of each earring that are missing their stones and are bent closed; this is not immediately noticeable when worn, and the stones can be replaced by your local jeweler, if desired. There is patina on some areas of the yellow gold, which does not affect wear.
*This listing is for the item only. All display boxes and/or photography props do not come with your purchase.*
The History
Retro jewelry refers to pieces created in the 1940s and 1950s. This was a period during which jewelry designers were largely influenced by the changes stemming from World War II. These designs reflect an infusion of futuristic vision with elements inspired by preceding periods, encompassing a variety of gemstones, shapes, and materials. Materials used commonly in Retro jewelry are gold, gold alloys, and silver as the wartime put a restriction on the use of platinum. Designs can be masculine, geometric and modern, or softer, more feminine and floral.
The Brutalist Style is architectural in origin and arose from the modernist movement of the early 20th century. The name comes from the French word for “raw.” In buildings, it can be noted by the exposed concrete construction, or detailed brickwork and concrete. Jewelry follows in this fashion on a smaller scale, with rough textures and an inherently unpolished look. The edgy, unfinished look to the Brutalist style counters the light, carefree appearance of the 1930s and 1940s art and architecture it was built alongside.
Prized for its intense blue hue and unique gold speckling, lapis lazuli has been mined since approximately 7000 BC. Some of the oldest and finest lapis lazuli mines can be found in Afghanistan, particularly in the Badakhshan province, where several mines are still in operation. From the Indus Valley Civilization to the ancient Egyptians and artists of Medieval Europe, lapis lazuli has been a highly prized and sought after stone. Popular not only in jewelry, lapis lazuli was also ground into powder by Renaissance artists, who used it to create the expensive ultramarine blue pigment used in oil paintings. Throughout human history, lapis lazuli has been carved and crafted into stoneware, jewelry, and other decorative items. Its rich blue pigment and eye-catching gold speckling make the stone highly prized in antique and modern jewelry alike.
Domestic US
: All items ship within one business day of receiving payment. Buyers will have 3 base shipping options to choose from, depending on the needed speed of delivery. Pricing on single and multi-purchase transactions can be seen below:
Auction Items:
Base shipping + .00 per additional gold item & BIN items combine for free
BIN Items:
FREE
Base Shipping:
USPS
First Class
: .00 fully insured, estimated 3-5 business days
USPS
Priority Mail
: .00 fully insured, estimated 2-3 business days
USPS
Priority Express
: .00 fully insured, overnight delivery
International
: All packages are sent via USPS and pricing is based on buyer location. Each customer will receive a revised invoice at the close of the auction with an updated shipping rate. We will combine shipping on multiple purchases for free.
We do not undervalue packages for customs, please do not ask us to do so. What you pay is what we will claim on your customs form.
Please take this into consideration before placing your bid.
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