Description
Model History:
The fruit of a collaboration between Chanel and Gripoix, these earrings embody an iconic part of the history of French costume jewelry. As early as the 1920s, Coco Chanel entrusted Suzanne Gripoix with the creation of jewelry to enhance her collections, preferring pâte de verre to precious stones to create material and light effects. The 1980s, when this model was produced, marked a return to bold, baroque designs under the artistic direction of Karl Lagerfeld, a period during which these clips fit perfectly with their opulent, theatrical style.
Exterior Details:
The clips feature a hammered-effect gilded metal frame, enriched with twisted relief motifs framing the central red cabochon. The glass paste is hand-worked in a deep ruby tone, capturing the light from every angle. An elongated baroque pearl dangles from the base, adding movement and contrast. The gold finish has retained its lustre, and the approximate dimensions are 7 cm long and 3 cm wide.
Interior Details:
The reverse side of the clips is smooth, with the gold-plated metal clip closure system, solid and functional. An engraved pastille indicates Chanel Gripoix authenticity and provenance. The assembly is clean and robust, testifying to meticulous craftsmanship.
Product Condition:
The clips are in very good vintage condition, with slight signs of use on the gold-plated metal and the surface of the beads. The red glass paste is intact, with no chips or cracks. The clip mechanism works perfectly, ensuring a good hold when worn. These minor signs of wear are consistent with their age and do not alter their visual appeal.
Care instructions:
Avoid contact with water, perfumes or chemicals to preserve the gilded metal and glass paste. Clean gently with a soft, non-abrasive cloth. Store clips away from moisture in a cloth-lined box to prevent rubbing and oxidation.
Why to choose this product :
These Chanel clips by Gripoix represent an outstanding example of French haute-fantaisie from the 1980s. Their theatrical design and artisanal craftsmanship make them a rare piece, at the crossroads of decorative art and fashion jewelry. Ideal for collectors or vintage jewelry enthusiasts, this model illustrates the heritage of two iconic houses, combining prestige, originality and quality.
