David Yurman X Collection Sterling Silver and 18K Yellow Gold Cushion Clip Earrings
Jewelry - Earrings · David Yurman, established in 1980 in New York City. The brand is globally recognized for pioneering American luxury jewelry, specifically the bridge between fine art and retail fashion through high-end sterling silver and mixed metal designs.
Pattern: The X Collection, featuring the signature 'X' motif and Yurman's iconic cable twist border. Introduced in early production phases of the brand and remains a core collection staple.
Type
Jewelry - Earrings
Maker
David Yurman, established in 1980 in New York City. The brand is globally recognized for pioneering American luxury jewelry, specifically the bridge between fine art and retail fashion through high-end sterling silver and mixed metal designs.
Material
Sterling silver (.925) and 18-karat yellow gold (750). The base frame and cable borders are sterling silver, while the central raised dome is 18K gold. Small accent stones appear to be pave-set diamonds along the X motif.
Dimensions
Approximately 20mm x 20mm (3/4 inch) in diameter. Weighted for ear comfort, typically ranging from 12-18 grams for the pair depending on the specific model and metal thickness.
Description
A sophisticated pair of cushion-shaped earrings from the David Yurman X Collection. These pieces showcase the brand's signature interplay between cool sterling silver and warm 18K gold. Each earring features a domed yellow gold center bisected by a brilliant pavé-set diamond 'X', all framed by a classic rope-texture cable border. They represent the quintessential Yurman aesthetic: wearable, architectural, and luxury-oriented.
Key Features
Signature cable twist border, mixed metal (two-tone) look, and the distinctive 'X' pavé feature which is a trademark of the specific collection subset.
Material & Composition
Sterling silver (.925) and 18-karat yellow gold (750). The base frame and cable borders are sterling silver, while the central raised dome is 18K gold. Small accent stones appear to be pave-set diamonds along the X motif.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish gold centers contrasted with oxidized (antiqued) sterling silver cable borders. Decoration features the 'cable' twist texture, a symbol of the brand, and a criss-cross (X) pavé diamond accent crossing over a domed cushion surface.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped on reverse with '(C) D.Y.', '925', and '750'. The 925 indicates sterling silver purity, and the 750 indicates 18-karat gold. Modern pieces also often include a small copyright symbol.
Construction Details
Cast multi-part construction. The silver cable frame and the gold 'cushion' center are manufactured separately and then joined. The diamond 'X' is set into a silver or white gold fitting and applied over the gold dome. Pierced posts with clip-back omega mechanisms are standard.
Functional Features
Omega clip-back closures, providing a secure fit for larger earrings with or without a post. The tension of the clips is adjustable by a jeweler to ensure comfort and security.
Handle & Grip Details
Omega-style backings made of sterling silver or white gold for spring tension; smooth high-finish on the side contacting the ear lobe.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality bench-finished casting. The transition between the high-polish gold and the textured silver shows expert assembly without visible gaps. Diamond setting is uniform and level.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic deep cable grooves, crisp stamping (if visible on reverse), and specific solder points between the gold and silver components. Genuine Yurman gold is an applied solid plate, not plated or gold-fill. The diamond setting should be precision bead-set.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States (New York). David Yurman pieces are typically designed in New York and manufactured in high-end ateliers in the US, Italy, or Thailand using modern precision casting.
Era & Period
Modern Contemporary (late 20th to early 21st century). The design reflects the 'Mixed Metal' movement popularized in the 1990s and 2000s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1995-2010. The style of the cushion dome and the specific proportions of the 'X' motif suggest production from this peak era of mixed-metal popularity.
Cultural Significance
David Yurman revolutionized the silver market by positioning sterling silver as a 'precious' luxury material comparable to gold, making high-end designer jewelry more accessible to the American market.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Minor surface scratches on the gold domes typical of wear; silver cable shows appropriate oxidation depth. No missing diamonds visible in the image. Hardware appears functional.
Value Estimate
Current resale market value between $400 - $750 USD depending on diamond weight and condition. Original retail price was likely between $1,200 and $1,800.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gold with a soft cloth; use a silver-specific polishing cloth for the cable edges but avoid dipping, as the liquid can remove the intentional black oxidation in the cable grooves. Store in an anti-tarnish pouch.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'Signature' series earrings, or Lagos 'Caviar' collection earrings. Yurman's 'Albion' collection is also similar but typically features a center gemstone rather than a gold 'X'.
Interesting Facts
David Yurman was a sculptor and his wife Sybil was a painter; they collaborated to create jewelry that was meant to be 'wearable art.' The cable motif was originally inspired by the cables of the Brooklyn Bridge.