Lagos Signature Caviar Sterling Silver and Hematite Stud Earrings
Jewelry (Earrings) · Lagos. Founded in 1977 by Steven Lagos in Philadelphia, PA. The brand is renowned for inventing the 'Caviar' texture and is a premier luxury jewelry house in the United States, bridging the gap between fashion and fine jewelry.
Pattern: Caviar Collection. Introduced in 1984, this signature beadwork pattern is the brand's most iconic design and remains in continuous production with numerous variations.
Type
Jewelry (Earrings)
Maker
Lagos. Founded in 1977 by Steven Lagos in Philadelphia, PA. The brand is renowned for inventing the 'Caviar' texture and is a premier luxury jewelry house in the United States, bridging the gap between fashion and fine jewelry.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with Hematite gemstones. The settings feature the signature beadwork, and the posts are typically 14k Gold for hypoallergenic wear, though the primary body is sterling silver.
Dimensions
Standard stud size, approximately 10mm to 12mm square. Each earring weighs roughly 2-3 grams. These are likely the 'Small' or 'Medium' cushion stud size variant.
Description
A sophisticated pair of Lagos stud earrings featuring the brand's proprietary Caviar beadwork. The high-polish silver beads are contrasted by dark oxidation in the recessed areas, framing a pair of striking faceted hematite stones. The cushion-shape provides a soft yet geometric aesthetic that transitions effortlessly from day to night.
Key Features
Signature 'Caviar' beaded texture, distinctive faceted hematite double-cushion design, and the use of oxidation to create a three-dimensional visual effect.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with Hematite gemstones. The settings feature the signature beadwork, and the posts are typically 14k Gold for hypoallergenic wear, though the primary body is sterling silver.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized sterling silver finish within the beadwork to provide depth and contrast. The decoration features the 'Caviar' texture—tightly clustered silver spheres—surrounding a cushion-cut or faceted hematite center stone. The style is Modern Classic with textures inspired by the shape of caviar.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically stamped 'LAGOS' and '925' on the earring back or the post. Some older or smaller pieces may also include a small 14K stamp on the posts. The marks indicate the brand's authenticity and the silver's fineness.
Construction Details
Cast using the lost-wax process to achieve the intricate beadwork, then hand-finished and hand-set. The posts are soldered to the body. Pieces are known for their substantial feel despite their small size.
Functional Features
Push-back (friction back) closure. The stones are bezel-set within the Caviar frame, providing a secure and snag-free mounting for the faceted hematite.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Jewelry item). Earring backs are standard butterfly or disk friction backs, designed for security and comfort against the earlobe.
Craftsmanship Details
Displays high-quality hand-finishing evidence. The uniformity of the beads and the precision of the bezel setting around the hematite indicate professional benchwork typical of luxury retail jewelry.
Authentication Indicators
Consistency of the 'Caviar' bead spacing, quality of the oxidation (not painted but chemically darkened), and the clarity of the Lagos stamp. The weight should feel 'hefty' for their size, a hallmark of genuine Lagos silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Designed in Philadelphia, USA. Manufacturing traditionally takes place in high-end workshops in Thailand or Italy under strict quality control standards characteristic of the Lagos atelier.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern (Late 20th to early 21st Century). The design reflects the 'Luxury Everyday' movement where fine materials are worked into versatile, textural forms.
Age Estimate
Circa 2000-2020. This specific cushion-cut hematite style has been a staple of the Caviar collection for several decades.
Cultural Significance
Lagos helped pioneer the 'Designer Sterling' market in the US, making silver jewelry a status symbol on par with traditional gold and diamond pieces in department stores like Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The silver shows minor surface tarnish and light wear consistent with careful use. The hematite stones appear vibrant without major chips. Metal displays appropriate luster. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
$150 - $250 (Secondary market/Antique shop). Retail prices for new Lagos hematite studs typically range from $350 to $500 depending on stone size.
Care & Maintenance
Polish high points with a silver cloth. Do not use silver dips or ultrasonic cleaners as they will remove the intentional oxidation that gives the Caviar beads their definition. Wash with warm soapy water and a soft brush for the stones.
Similar Pieces
David Yurman 'Albion' or 'Chatelaine' studs (uses cable motif instead of caviar beads), John Hardy 'Dot' collection (uses larger, more flattened dots and ethnic inspirations).
Interesting Facts
Steven Lagos was inspired by the shape of caviar seeds during a trip to the South of France, leading to the creation of the texture that would define his brand for over 40 years.