Vintage Faux Pearl Waterfall Cluster Screw-Back Earrings
Unbranded (Likely Mid-Century Costume Jewelry) · Jewelry & Watches > Vintage Costume Jewelry
Era / Decade
1950s-1960s (Mid-Century); indicated by the screw-back mechanism and the waterfall/fringe cluster design popular during this era.
Material
Base metal with silver-tone plating, faux pearls (glass or plastic with nacre coating), and metal wire/chain links.
Condition
Fair to Good; There is visible tarnish/oxidation on the silver-tone metal backing and notable 'peeling' or loss of the pearlescent coating on several faux pearls, exposing the base material beneath.
Demand Level
Moderate to Low; while vintage jewelry is popular, the non-pierced screw-back style and the condition issues (peeling pearls) limit the market to specific vintage enthusiasts or jewelry artists.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$8.00 - $18.00 (Low: $5, Mid: $12, High: $22 for the right buyer if cleaned)
Estimated Retail Value
$15.00 - $25.00 (comparable modern costume jewelry equivalents)
Comparable Sales
Similar unbranded 1950s faux pearl screw-backs usually sell for $10-$20 on Etsy/eBay. Signed pieces (Trifari, Miriam Haskell) would fetch $50+, but these lacks a maker's mark and have condition issues.
Description
Exquisite pair of vintage mid-century waterfall fringe earrings featuring multi-strand faux pearl clusters. These elegant screw-back earrings showcase a tiered 'grape cluster' or waterfall style that offers beautiful movement when worn. The silver-tone backings are characteristic of the 1950s era. Perfect for vintage collectors, wedding attendants, or fans of classic Hollywood Regency style.
Key Features
Desirable waterfall/fringe silhouette; screw-back closure (good for non-pierced ears); authentic 1950s aesthetic; high volume of individual components for potential repurposing/upcycling.
Authenticity Indicators
Screw-back hardware is period-accurate; the 'patina' on the metal suggests age rather than modern antiquing; wire-wrapped construction is typical of mass-produced vintage costume jewelry. Confidence: High (as generic vintage).
Flaws to Note
Significant nacre loss (peeling) on several pearls; metal oxidation/greening on the backplates; some wires may be slightly bent from age. This wear is permanent but adds 'character' for some collectors.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage), eBay (good for 'as-is' lots), or Depop (if marketed as 'coquette' or 'vintage aesthetic'). Local antique booths are also a viable option.
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Mid-Century,' 'Waterfall,' 'Fringe,' 'Coquette,' and 'Screw-Back.' Highlight the movement of the dangles. Clean the metal backing gently with a soft cloth but avoid harsh chemicals that might further peel the faux pearls. Photograph against a dark velvet background to make the white pearls pop.