Vintage Black Emerald Cut Rhinestone Clip-On Earrings with Aurora Borealis Halo
Unbranded (Likely Weiss or Lisner-style) · Jewelry & Watches > Vintage Costume Jewelry
Era / Decade
1950s - 1960s (Mid-Century Costume Jewelry)
Material
Silver-tone rhodium or white-metal alloy plating; faceted glass rhinestones including a central jet black stone and 'Aurora Borealis' (AB) coated accent stones.
Condition
Good to Very Good. The prongs are intact and the clip mechanisms appear functional. Some visible 'graying' or foil backing degradation on the smaller stones and minor chipping on the central black stones common with age.
Demand Level
Moderate. There is a steady niche for 1950s evening jewelry, particularly for bridal wear or vintage fashion enthusiasts.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$18.00 - $35.00 depending on platform and buyer interest.
Estimated Retail Value
$10.00 - $15.00 (Original 1950s price adjusted for inflation would be roughly $45 today)
Comparable Sales
Similar unbranded black glass clip-ons generally sell for $20-$28 on eBay. If identified as a brand like Weiss, prices jump to $45-$60.
Description
Stunning pair of mid-century vintage clip-on earrings. Each earring features a large, emerald-cut jet black glass stone center, surrounded by a halo of shimmering Aurora Borealis (AB) rhinestones that reflect blue and purple hues. The stones are prong-set in a sturdy silver-tone metal frame with high-quality clip-on backs. Measuring approximately 1 inch in height.
Key Features
Timeless emerald cut style; highly collectible Aurora Borealis finish; classic mid-century cocktail jewelry aesthetic; strong clip-on tension.
Authenticity Indicators
Construction style (prong settings rather than glue) and the 'paddle' style clip-on back are characteristic of 1950s manufacturers. No visible hallmark suggests they were part of a mass-produced boutique line. Confidence: High (Vintage status).
Flaws to Note
Minor flea bites (tiny chips) on the edges of the center black stones. Some oxidation or darkening of the silver-tone finish on the back plates. Slight 'dimming' of the AB coating on a few halo stones.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage), eBay (good for auctioning to collectors), or Poshmark (strong for accessories).
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Mid-Century Modern', 'MCM', 'Rockabilly', and 'Gothic Victorian'. Photograph them on a black velvet display stand and include a photo next to a coin for scale. Clean the stones with a dry microfiber cloth before shooting - do not submerge in water as it may damage the foil backing.