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Only one available · Vintage original

1980s Unsigned Abalone Shell & Oxidized Metal Dangle Clip-On Earrings

Curated by Shawnee

$82

ConditionAppears very good to excellent from photos. The oxidized patina on the metal body appears intentional and consistent across both earrings. Minor verdigris visible on the back of one earring near the clip hardware — consistent with age and typical of oxidized base metals. Clip mechanisms appear intact and functional. Abalone cabochons display vivid iridescence with no visible crazing or loss. Bead fringe appears complete and evenly matched on both earrings.

One of a kind — the only available piece

1980s · c. 1982–1988 — characteristic of the 1980s artisan/ethnic jewelry movement; hammered oxidized metal, organic bead fringe, and iridescent shell cabochons are hallmarks of the period · Mixed Metal · Shell · Beads · Glass · Bezel Set · Oval cut · 2.94"

"These striking 1980s artisan-style clip-on earrings feature dark, hammered, oxidized metal shields accented with engraved geometric chevron details and bezel-set, iridescent abalone shell cabochons. Each earring is finished with an articulated fringe of ribbed metal beads and faceted amber-tone glass nuggets suspended from brass jump rings. Measuring 2.94 inches in length, these sculptural statement pieces showcase the bold aesthetic characteristic of the era. The condition is very good, with an intentional dark patina throughout. There is minor age-related verdigris on the back of one earring near the clip hardware, which remains functional and secure. The abalone shells are vibrant and free of crazing. All sales are final. Please review all photos, measurements, and condition details carefully before purchase. Vintage sales are final; no returns or exchanges."

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Item Details+
TypeClip-On Earrings
Brand / MakerUnsigned
Era1980s
MaterialsOxidized dark-tone mixed metal shield-form body with textured hammered surface and engraved geometric chevron detailing; bezel-set iridescent abalone shell cabochon center; articulated brass jump-ring fringe suspending ribbed oval wood or dark metal beads and faceted amber/champagne glass nugget beads
Measurements2.94"

Description

These striking 1980s artisan-style clip-on earrings feature dark, hammered, oxidized metal shields accented with engraved geometric chevron details and bezel-set, iridescent abalone shell cabochons. Each earring is finished with an articulated fringe of ribbed metal beads and faceted amber-tone glass nuggets suspended from brass jump rings. Measuring 2.94 inches in length, these sculptural statement pieces showcase the bold aesthetic characteristic of the era. The condition is very good, with an intentional dark patina throughout. There is minor age-related verdigris on the back of one earring near the clip hardware, which remains functional and secure. The abalone shells are vibrant and free of crazing. All sales are final. Please review all photos, measurements, and condition details carefully before purchase. Vintage sales are final; no returns or exchanges.

Condition

Appears very good to excellent from photos. The oxidized patina on the metal body appears intentional and consistent across both earrings. Minor verdigris visible on the back of one earring near the clip hardware — consistent with age and typical of oxidized base metals. Clip mechanisms appear intact and functional. Abalone cabochons display vivid iridescence with no visible crazing or loss. Bead fringe appears complete and evenly matched on both earrings.