Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver Ball Screw-Back Earrings
Jewelry (Earrings) · Unknown manufacturer or artist; possibly Mexican Silversmith (Taxco) or American costume jeweler based on the screw-back mechanism commonly found in mid-20th-century silver production.
Pattern: Classic Ball or Bead Stud; non-specific design popular across various mid-century sterling lines.
Type
Jewelry (Earrings)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer or artist; possibly Mexican Silversmith (Taxco) or American costume jeweler based on the screw-back mechanism commonly found in mid-20th-century silver production.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) or possibly Silver Plate. The visible screw mechanism appears to be of the same metal-to-metal finish. If sterling, it contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% alloy (usually copper).
Dimensions
Estimated ball diameter: 8mm to 10mm. Total length with screw mechanism: 1.5cm. Estimated weight: 3-5 grams for the pair.
Description
A pair of timeless sterling silver screw-back earrings featuring high-polish spherical balls. The minimalist design showcases the clean lines and reflective properties of the metal, making them versatile accessory pieces that bridge the gap between vintage charm and modern simplicity.
Key Features
Spherical geometric form, screw-back non-pierced hardware, high mirror polish, minimalist aesthetic.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) or possibly Silver Plate. The visible screw mechanism appears to be of the same metal-to-metal finish. If sterling, it contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% alloy (usually copper).
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished or bright finish; no engraving, stones, or applied decoration. The style is Minimalist/Modernist, emphasizing geometric form and light reflection over ornamentation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marks are likely located on the small circular pads at the end of the screw or on the back of the ball. Common marks for this style include '925', 'Sterling', or an eagle mark/maker's initials if of Mexican origin.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured or cast hollow balls. The screw-back mechanism is a separate assembly of a threaded rod and a curved wire frame, likely soldered to the back of the sphere.
Functional Features
Screw-back mechanism for non-pierced ears; the user turns the threaded disc to tighten the earring against the earlobe. This is a secure alternative to clip-ons.
Handle & Grip Details
Metal threaded knob for adjustment. The curved wire provides the tension, while the flat disc (pad) acts as the grip against the back of the lobe.
Craftsmanship Details
Good quality commercial production. The soldering between the wire and the ball is clean, and the threading is well-executed for smooth operation.
Authentication Indicators
The age-appropriate wear on the metal and the specific type of knurling on the screw-back are consistent with mid-century manufacturing. Verification of a '925' or 'Sterling' mark is necessary for full authentication.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA, Mexico, or Italy. These were mass-produced for the mid-market jewelry trade and sold in department stores and boutiques.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1940s-1960s). This period saw a surge in screw-back jewelry before pierced ears became the cultural norm in the West in the late 1960s/70s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965. The screw-back design and the spherical aesthetic are highly characteristic of early-to-mid post-war modernism.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-war transition to clean, industrial-inspired jewelry shapes and the social history of cosmetic body modification (ear piercing) during the 20th century.
Condition Notes
Very Good Condition. Light surface scratches and minor tarnishing consistent with age. Metal shows good luster; the screw mechanisms appear functional and straight.
Value Estimate
$25 - $60 USD. Value is driven by silver weight and the resurgence of interest in vintage 1950s accessories.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft polishing cloth (Hagerty or Cape Cod). Avoid jewelry dips that can enter the hollow sphere. Store in a soft pouch to prevent scratches on the mirror finish.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. HardWear Ball Earrings (post version), Georg Jensen #108 Spheres, or vintage Taxco bead jewelry. Differences lie primarily in the closure type (pierced vs. non-pierced) and hallmark prestige.
Interesting Facts
Screw-back earrings were invented in the late 19th century but reached their peak popularity in the 1950s when piercing was often considered 'unrefined' in certain social circles.