A jewel that feels both regal and romantic.
This 1980s deadstock hair comb features an elegant composition of luminous faux pearls, sculptural gold leaves and a striking ruby-red cabochon centrepiece. Designed as a decorative hair ornament, the piece transforms a simple hairstyle into something reminiscent of vintage evening glamour.
At its centre sits a rich crimson oval cabochon, framed by a delicate halo of sparkling rhinestones that lend the jewel a refined brilliance. On either side, finely textured gold leaf motifs extend outward, adding movement and classical ornamentation to the design.
Beneath this decorative crest lies a fan of teardrop-shaped faux pearls, arranged in a soft floral formation that provides volume and luminosity. The jewel is mounted on a clear vintage comb, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the hair while securing the piece comfortably.
Unused and preserved in deadstock condition, the comb captures the decorative spirit of 1980s accessories — where hair ornaments were designed to be as striking as jewellery itself.
Design Description
The design is structured around a central jewel element, with the ruby cabochon serving as the focal point of the composition. Its saturated red tone evokes the richness of traditional gemstone jewellery and provides dramatic contrast against the soft sheen of the pearls.
Encircling the cabochon is a halo of clear rhinestones, enhancing its brilliance and lending the piece a couture-like finish.
Flanking the centre are two sculptural gold leaves, delicately textured with engraved vein details. These leaves frame the central jewel like wings, giving the design a sense of symmetry and elegance.
Below the top ornament sits a layered cluster of elongated pearl drops, arranged in a floral fan formation that adds depth and softness to the composition.
The clear comb beneath allows the decorative section to appear almost suspended within the hair, a hallmark of well-designed vintage hair jewellery.
Styling Suggestions
This piece lends itself beautifully to both vintage-inspired and contemporary styling.
Classic styling
• Placed above a low chignon or bun
• Worn at the back of a half-up hairstyle
• Tucked into a French twist
Modern styling
• Styled into loose romantic waves for evening wear
• Worn with a sleek ponytail for contrast
• Placed at the side of a braided crown or twisted bun
Because of its rich colour palette, the comb pairs beautifully with:
black eveningwear
ivory silk
deep burgundy or wine tones
festive attire
bridal or reception looks
The ruby-toned centrepiece gives the comb a particularly festive and regal character, making it ideal for formal occasions.
Collector’s Value
This piece carries particular interest for collectors of vintage accessories.
1. Deadstock vintage condition
Hair combs from the 1980s are increasingly difficult to find in unused original condition, making deadstock examples especially desirable.
2. Statement hair jewellery of the 1980s
The decade saw a resurgence of ornamental hair accessories, often designed with dramatic jewel-like elements.
3. Regal gemstone-inspired design
The ruby cabochon centre evokes the look of traditional gemstone jewellery, giving the piece a luxurious aesthetic despite its costume construction.
4. Bridal and evening appeal
Pearl and crystal hair ornaments remain highly sought-after for bridal styling and formal events, making this piece both collectible and wearable.
For collectors of vintage hair jewellery, pearl accessories, or 1980s statement pieces, this comb represents a beautifully preserved example of the era’s decorative glamour.
 
Provenance
These earrings come from a remarkable discovery — deadstock from a historic London jewellery warehouse that closed its doors in the late 1980s. Decades later, the warehouse was rediscovered and reopened, revealing untouched vintage inventory preserved exactly as it was when the business ceased operations.
Today, this archive supplies rare pieces to film and production houses such as Bridgerton, Joan, and other major costume productions, alongside a select circle of vintage dealers.
To encounter such pieces in unworn condition after more than four decades is exceptionally rare.