Pools of Light Earrings Value Guide

These mid-century Pools of Light earrings revive a Victorian tradition of using undrilled orbs to maximize light reflection and preserve the material's integrity. While earlier versions used rock crystal, these 1950s-1970s American-made examples utilize clear lucite suspended in delicate gold-filled wire cages.

What affects the value of Pools of Light Earrings?

• Condition of the gold-filled wire, specifically looking for signs of brassing or wear to the plating.
• Clarity of the lucite orbs, as yellowing or internal cloudiness significantly reduces the $50-$70 market value.
• Complexity and intactness of the cage design, ensuring no wires are bent or missing.
• The presence of original hardware, such as period-correct screw-backs or ear wires.

How to Identify Pools of Light Earrings?

• Check for the absence of drill holes in the lucite orbs, as authentic 'Pools of Light' must be undrilled.
• Inspect the metal cages for 'GF' or 'Gold-Filled' hallmarks common in 1950s-1970s US manufacturing.
• Verify the material by checking for the warmth and lightweight feel of lucite compared to the coldness of natural rock crystal.
• Look for the characteristic light reflection effect where the orb appears to glow from within when illuminated.

History of Pools of Light Earrings

These 'Pools of Light' earrings are a nod to a Victorian-era trend where undrilled rock crystal orbs were caged to avoid piercing and preserve their mystical properties, which were believed to be enhanced by their untouched nature. The design, emphasizing light reflection rather than refraction, became popular again in the mid-20th century with materials like lucite often used as an alternative to genuine rock crystal.