Circa 1950s–1960s | Handcrafted in Italy
 
There are jewels that adorn — and then there are jewels that tell a story of place, tradition, and the patient hand of an artisan. These exquisite Italian micro-mosaic clip-on earrings belong firmly to the latter.
 
The Design
Each earring is a perfectly proportioned round medallion framed in a twisted gilt rope border — a classic mid-century Italian finish that subtly elevates the composition. Within the frame lies a hand-laid micro-mosaic floral arrangement:
Rich coral-red tesserae forming the outer halo
Sunlit yellows and warm marigold centres
Soft milk-white florets
Lush green leaves in varied tonal shards
Every tiny fragment of glass — known as tesserae — has been individually cut and meticulously set to create this intricate bouquet. Unlike painted enamel, this is true mosaic work: dimensional, textural, and enduring.
The craftsmanship is unmistakably Italian — likely produced in Rome or Florence, regions renowned for reviving the ancient Roman micro-mosaic tradition for the Grand Tour market and later mid-century collectors.
 
The Era
These earrings most plausibly date to the 1950s–1960s, a period when Italian mosaic jewellery saw a renewed popularity. Post-war Italy experienced a revival in artisanal exports, and micro-mosaic became a cherished souvenir for travellers and a collectible accessory for elegant European wardrobes.
 
The clip mechanism — sturdy, well-engineered, and comfortable — is typical of mid-century construction. They sit securely and are remarkably easy on the ears, distributing weight evenly without pinching.
 
Why This Is Collectible
True Micro-Mosaic Craftsmanship
Each piece is hand-assembled. No two mosaics are ever perfectly identical — slight variations are proof of authenticity, not flaw.
Historic Technique
Micro-mosaic traces back to Ancient Rome. By the 19th century it became synonymous with Italian artisanal excellence. Owning such a piece is owning a fragment of that lineage.
Finite Production
This is not a contemporary mass-manufactured reproduction. Mid-century Italian mosaic jewellery was produced in smaller artisanal workshops, and surviving pieces in well-preserved condition are increasingly sought after.
Timeless Motif
Florals in mosaic transcend trends. They feel both nostalgic and perpetually elegant.
Clip-On Format
Collectors increasingly appreciate vintage clip earrings for their structural integrity and versatility — especially when well-balanced like these.
Styling Notes
These earrings are surprisingly versatile:
Pair with a crisp white linen blouse for a refined Mediterranean aesthetic.
Wear with a black dress — let the mosaic provide the only colour.
Style with soft tailoring and gold accents to echo the gilt border.
For collectors of vintage, they layer beautifully with mid-century brooches or a delicate gold chain.
They suit a woman who appreciates craftsmanship — someone who values pieces with provenance over fleeting fashion. They are not loud; they are intentional. They invite a second look.
Condition
The mosaic appears intact, colours remain vibrant, and the gilt frame shows the gentle, honest patina expected of authentic mid-century pieces — a mark of age that enhances rather than detracts.
 
In essence:
These are not merely earrings. They are miniature works of Italian decorative art — wearable mosaics that carry forward a centuries-old tradition.
A charming, culturally rich addition to any serious vintage jewellery collection.
 
- 1950s
- Italian Mosaic 
- Material: Glass micromosaic tesserae, brass mount
- In excellent vintage condition. No defect or damage or damage. Please see close up video for quality assurance.
- Measures: 2 cm x 2 cm
- Sourced from London, UK