CLIO Makeup Compact with Internal Mirror
Vanity Set - Makeup Compact · CLIO (Club Clio), a prominent South Korean cosmetics brand established in 1993, known for professional-grade makeup products and modern functional packaging. Not a traditional silversmith.
Pattern: Standard Professional Line, contemporary production, likely from the 'Kill Cover' or 'Stay Perfect' collections.
Type
Vanity Set - Makeup Compact
Maker
CLIO (Club Clio), a prominent South Korean cosmetics brand established in 1993, known for professional-grade makeup products and modern functional packaging. Not a traditional silversmith.
Material
Primarily molded plastic/polycarbonate with a metallic-finished outer rim; likely vacuum-metallized plastic or thin chrome-plated base metal. Contains a glass mirror; no precious metal content (not silver).
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 7-8 cm (approx. 3 inches), weight approximately 50-80 grams including contents. Fits standard palm-sized cushion or powder compact dimensions.
Description
A functional contemporary makeup compact by CLIO. The item features a circular interior mirror with clean branding and a polished metallic-toned bezel. While it mimics the luster of silver vanity items, it is a modern utility piece designed for the cosmetics industry rather than a piece of fine silver hollowware.
Key Features
Central CLIO logo on the mirror, thin metallic-finish bezel, plastic hinge mechanism, and circular form factor.
Material & Composition
Primarily molded plastic/polycarbonate with a metallic-finished outer rim; likely vacuum-metallized plastic or thin chrome-plated base metal. Contains a glass mirror; no precious metal content (not silver).
Finish & Decoration
Polished chrome-effect finish on the bezel, printed black 'CLIO' logo on the interior mirror surface. Minimalist, functional industrial design typical of contemporary K-Beauty aesthetics.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silver hallmarks (purity marks, maker's marks, or assay marks). Only the brand name 'CLIO' is printed on the glass. Bottom labeling (not visible) would typically contain batch codes and 'Made in Korea'.
Construction Details
Mass-produced via injection molding. Features a mechanical spring-loaded hinge and a press-fit mirror glass held by a metallic-toned retaining ring.
Functional Features
Single-plane reflective mirror, mechanical hinge for lid enclosure, and a recessed well for cosmetic product (cushion foundation or pressed powder).
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; designed as a handheld disc-shaped case with a thumb-indent for opening the clasp.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial machine-made item; precision molding of plastic parts; high-speed automated printing and assembly; no evidence of hand-wrought silver techniques.
Authentication Indicators
The 'CLIO' branding is consistent with corporate cosmetics logos. The presence of plastic components and the lack of hallmarks immediately distinguish this from silver or silver-plated antiques.
Origin & Manufacturing
South Korea; manufactured in a high-volume cosmetic packaging facility, not a silversmithing workshop.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary (21st Century), specifically late 2010s to early 2020s, reflecting the global 'K-Beauty' industrial design movement.
Age Estimate
Circa 2018-2023 based on the brand's current typography and the mechanical design of the hinge and bezel.
Cultural Significance
Represents the global expansion of South Korean beauty culture and the shift from silver heirloom vanity items to disposable, brand-centric functional cosmetics.
Condition Notes
Fair condition; the mirror glass shows significant surface residue and smudging. The top edge of the bezel shows signs of wear and minor delamination of the metallic finish. Overall Grade: Fair.
Value Estimate
Nominal market value ($5 - $15 USD); value is primarily in the cosmetic product if unused, rather than the packaging itself.
Care & Maintenance
Clean mirror with a microfiber cloth and a drop of glass cleaner. Avoid abrasive polishes or silver dips, as these will strip the metallic paint from the plastic bezel.
Similar Pieces
Compact cases by Hera, Laneige, or Sulwhasoo. Differs from antique sterling compacts by Elgin or Stratton which use solid metals and engine-turned engravings.
Interesting Facts
Clio was the first makeup brand established in South Korea. Their packaging often uses metallic finishes to convey a professional, high-end 'Pro-Artist' feel despite being made of durable plastics.