Marcasite-Style Sterling Silver Teardrop Dangle Earrings with Inlaid Turquoise-Colored Enamel/Stone
Jewelry (Earrings) · Unidentified contemporary manufacturer; likely a commercial jewelry brand specializing in vintage-style or 'Art Deco' revival sterling silver. Common producers include brands found in department stores like Macy's or specialty silver importers from Thailand or China.
Pattern: Teardrop Dangle with Marcasite-style Beading; non-specific generic pattern frequently used in Art Deco revival collections.
Type
Jewelry (Earrings)
Maker
Unidentified contemporary manufacturer; likely a commercial jewelry brand specializing in vintage-style or 'Art Deco' revival sterling silver. Common producers include brands found in department stores like Macy's or specialty silver importers from Thailand or China.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) with turquoise-colored inlay (likely stabilized turquoise, dyed howlite, or epoxy resin/enamel). The 'marcasite' effect is achieved through beaded silver milgrain rather than actual iron pyrite stones.
Dimensions
Estimated length: 2.5 - 3.0 cm (~1 inch). Estimated weight: 3 - 5 grams per pair. These are standard 'daywear' drop earrings.
Description
These elegant sterling silver earrings feature a sophisticated teardrop silhouette, balancing the cool luster of silver with a vibrant turquoise-hued inlay. The upper portion consists of a stylized open-work loop decorated with milgrain beading that captures the light, mimicking the sparkle of vintage marcasite jewels. The pendant drops are capped with a textured, engraved silver collar, leading into a smooth, vibrant turquoise element that provides a pop of color perfect for both casual and semi-formal attire.
Key Features
Milgrain 'f faux-marcasite' texture; teardrop dangle form; vibrant turquoise-colored center; cross-hatched engraved caps.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) with turquoise-colored inlay (likely stabilized turquoise, dyed howlite, or epoxy resin/enamel). The 'marcasite' effect is achieved through beaded silver milgrain rather than actual iron pyrite stones.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish on the silver edges; milgrain/beaded texture on the upper loop to simulate marcasite. The caps feature a cross-hatched or textured basket-weave engraving. Style is Art Deco Revival.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expect a '925' or 'Sterling' stamp on the reverse of the teardrop or on the earring post/butterfly back. No visible maker's mark in the provided image.
Construction Details
Machine-cast components. The upper loop and lower teardrop are cast separately and joined by a simple jump ring. The stone/enamel is glued or pressure-set into the silver bezel.
Functional Features
Dangle/drop movement via a jump ring connection; post and butterfly back closure (not visible but standard for this form).
Handle & Grip Details
Silver earring posts; requires friction-back (butterfly) nut for secure wear. Condition appears new.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial grade. The symmetry is precise due to casting, though lacking the unique character of hand-chased silver. The jump ring is well-aligned but simple.
Authentication Indicators
The '925' stamp is the primary indicator. The uniform texture of the milgrain suggests machine casting rather than hand-set stones. Weight and thermal conductivity would confirm if the inlay is stone or resin.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Thailand, Mexico, or China, which are the primary global hubs for mass-market .925 sterling silver gemstone jewelry.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary (21st Century). The design is an 'Art Deco Revival' style, imitating motifs from the late 1920s through a modern manufacturing lens.
Age Estimate
Circa 2000-present. The crisp edges and plastic-backed display card indicate contemporary production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the enduring popularity of Art Deco aesthetics and the democratization of gemstone jewelry through contemporary silver manufacturing.
Condition Notes
Excellent/Mint condition. No visible tarnish, surface scratches, or signs of wear. The inlay is flush with the metal edges.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $55.00 USD (Retail); $10.00 - $20.00 USD (Secondary/Resale).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft silver polishing cloth; avoid chemical dips which can damage the turquoise-colored inlay or the oxidized recesses of the texture. Store in a dry, cool place.
Similar Pieces
Genuine Art Deco Marcasite Earrings (would feature hand-set stones and aged patina); Southwestern Navajo Turquoise Earring (typically features saw-tooth bezels and more rustic hand-stamping).
Interesting Facts
Marcasite jewelry was extremely popular in the Victorian and Art Deco eras as a more affordable, shimmering alternative to diamonds. Modern revival pieces like these often use 'beaded silver' to achieve the look without the fragility of actual pyrite stones falling out.