18K White Gold Opal and Diamond Earclips, Circa 1960s

Twelve round opal cabochons ring each earclip in a tight cluster, each stone small enough that no single one dominates; instead the play-of-color reads as a scattered shimmer across the whole face as it catches light. Round diamonds fill the gaps between opals, close-set so the sparkle threads through the cluster rather than framing it from the outside. The result sits close to the ear and reads as a single textured surface rather than a collection of separate stones.

Cluster-set earclips like this were built for versatility in the 1960s; substantial enough for evening, restrained enough in scale to wear through the day.

18K white gold, 8.8 grams total, 20mm diameter. 24 round cabochon opals (12 per earclip), approximately 6 total carats. 26 round brilliant-cut diamonds, approximately 1 total carat, G–H color, VS1 clarity. Clip backs.