The Legacy Collection - Rare vintage jewels, handpicked to be treasured for generations.
 
A true heirloom of mid-century design, these breathtaking 1950s Marena Handarbeit 18ct gold plated earrings embody the glamour and precision of German craftsmanship, executed in Marena’s unmistakable Art Deco-inspired style — complete with signature tasseled chains.
 
At the heart of each earring sits an iridescent abalone shell cabochon, shimmering with natural swirls of peacock green, oceanic blue, and shell pink — no two patterns alike - the pair has slightly distinct leaf design, making each piece uniquely mesmerizing. These are natural abalone shell inlays, set into 18ct gold-plated metal, bordered with engraved Greco-Roman rope motifs and textured detailing.
 
Adorning the sides are sculpted onyx-effect enamel leaves, hand-applied with care. Interestingly, each pair carries subtle differences in the leaf shapes and detailing (Please note, it’s not a defect — it’s part of the design), highlighting the handmade nature of these earrings — no two are identical, making them even more special and authentic to collectors who value artisanal variation over factory uniformity.
 
Flanking the shell are black onyx-effect enamel leaves, individually sculpted and painted by hand — a nod to the organic, botanical Art Nouveau roots that Marena often interwove with their Deco aesthetic. Beneath the main medallion, an elaborate cascade of textured and spiral-cut gold-plated chains creates a striking tassel effect, catching light with every movement. Some chains are box-link, while others are twisted, adding a sophisticated layered effect.
 
At the base, tiny hand-set Austrian crystals in aurora borealis and green hues add a final glint of light and color, subtly enhancing the natural shimmer of the abalone.
 
These earrings are clip-on style and finished with a smooth oval back, stamped “MARENA HANDARBEIT” — confirming their provenance as handmade pieces from post-war West Germany.
 
🔍 Why it’s Collectible
Signed and handmade: "Handarbeit" denotes handmade craftsmanship, rare in today’s mass production.
Iconic Marena style: Their chain-tassel designs were instantly recognizable and cherished in 1950s Europe.
Natural materials: Abalone shell, Austrian crystals, and hand-enamelled details make this a material-rich piece.
Preserved vintage condition: A rare find from the 1950s in beautiful wearable shape.
🏷️ Styling Tip
These make a dazzling statement with slicked-back hair or paired with a minimalist black dress to let the colors and craftsmanship take center stage. Ideal for vintage collectors, Art Deco enthusiasts, or anyone drawn to jewellery that tells a story of artistry, era, and elegance.
 
About Marena Handarbeit
 
Marena & Eros was a vintage costume jewelry brand active from the 1940s to the 1990s, known for its limited-edition porcelain-face brooches and Art Deco–style designs. Their pieces often featured gold-plated tassels or chains and were crafted using high-quality materials like silver, 18-karat gold, porcelain, onyx, mother-of-pearl, Austrian crystals, and rhinestones. Items are marked “Marena,” “Eros,” and “Handarbeit” (handmade), typically with a W. Germany stamp. Due to their craftsmanship, rarity, and design inspiration from artist Erté, these pieces are highly collectible and can sell for hundreds of dollars today.
 
- 1950s
- 18ct gold-plated metal, abalone shell, onyx-effect enamel, Austrian crystal
- Origin: West Germany
- In excellent vintage condition. No defect or damage or damage. Please see close up video for quality assurance.
- Measures: 
- Sourced from London, UK