Maltese Cross Earrings Value Guide

These 1950-1970s Maltese Cross earrings represent a mid-century resurgence of the historic Knights of Malta symbol in high-end costume jewelry. Featuring a striking combination of green glass cabochons and amber rhinestones, these US-made pieces capture the ornate aesthetic popularized by designers like Florenza and Arthur Pepper.

What affects the value of Maltese Cross Earrings?

• The physical condition of the gold-tone finish, specifically looking for signs of pitting or wear.
• The clarity and security of the amber rhinestones and the lack of chips in the green cabochons.
• The strength and functionality of the clip-on tension springs.
• Attribution to a specific American designer which can significantly increase the $150 market baseline.

How to Identify Maltese Cross Earrings?

• Check for the distinctive eight-pointed cross silhouette characteristic of the Maltese design.
• Inspect the reverse for high-quality gold-tone metal plating and period-correct clip-on mechanisms.
• Verify the presence of bezel-set green glass cabochons and faceted amber rhinestones consistent with mid-century manufacturing.
• Look for potential maker's marks such as 'ART' or 'Florenza' which were common for this specific style and era.

History of Maltese Cross Earrings

The Maltese Cross, a symbol strongly associated with the Knights of Malta, has been a prominent design element in jewelry for centuries. Its resurgence in popularity during the mid-20th century, particularly in costume jewelry, led to many ornate interpretations like these earrings. Designers such as Arthur Pepper and Florenza created numerous pieces inspired by this classic motif, often incorporating colorful cabochons and sparkling rhinestones to achieve a luxurious yet affordable aesthetic.