Every Jewelry Box Had Them: Now It's A Valuable Vintage Find You Can Use As Decor

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Oftentimes, vintage jewelry pieces like clip-on earrings are relegated to jewelry boxes and storage drawers, going untouched once you realize that nothing in your closet even remotely matches them. But before you write off that thrifted pair of earrings, take a second look, as some clip-ons carry more value than the few bucks that you paid for them. Plus, there's no reason why you can't pull them out and have them earn their keep around the house. With a little creativity, you can transform those unique clip-on earrings into trendy vintage decor items that'll instantly elevate your home. How? By incorporating them into your existing decor pieces.

Clip-on earrings were first introduced in the late 1800s and often featured ornate Victorian designs. By the 1920s, these earlier styles gave way to sleeker and simpler designs, including geometric stones and drop earrings, matching the era's newfound sense of freedom. The 1950s and 1960s took this stylistic freedom even further, popularizing statement earrings with multiple hoops, textured materials, and large stones in unconventional shapes. No matter which era your clip-on earrings hail from, there are plenty of ways to give them a new lease on life. Knowing how to repurpose thrifted jewelry is all it takes to turn a neglected pair of earrings into decor. But first, it helps to assess the value of what's in your jewelry box before you reach for the glue gun.

Clip-on earrings can add a dazzling finish to the items you already own. For example, you can attach them to the bottom of a lampshade for a splash of color, using the clips to reposition them without causing damage to the shade. Or, remove the clip backing entirely with a pair of needle-nose pliers and attach them to a craft magnet using glue, such as B-7000 Jewelry Glue. Place them on the refrigerator as a stylish way to hold up those travel photos or daily reminders. 

If you're the artistic type and have multiple sets of earrings on hand, consider creating Art Deco-inspired framed wall decor. Arrange the earrings on a canvas with decorative accents, such as lace fabric, pearls, vintage buttons, and rhinestones. Secure them with a strong adhesive and place the canvas inside a shadow box frame.

Like brooches — another thrift store find that will give your house some vintage charm — clip-on earrings can be used to dress up throw pillows. Simply glue the jewelry to the button of the cushion, or to all four corners, for a statement-making accent. This subtle addition can give your entire sofa an heirloom feel. Want to add a little bit of refinement to an ordinary-looking vase? Remove the clip backing and use jewelry glue to affix them to the base for a light-catching detail that doesn't overshadow the piece.

Before embarking on your new craft project, it's best to go through your entire collection first, as not every piece will be destined to meet your glue gun. Some pairs may have resale value, which will depend on factors such as the brand, condition, and year they were made. The closure types may also indicate that the earrings are truly vintage — for example, screw-back earrings date back to the 1920s and are considered a collectors' dream.

There are a few notable vintage brands to look for that may fetch you a pretty penny. These include Trifari, Miriam Haskell, Coro, Kenneth Jay Lane, and Weiss. One seller has priced a pair of Trifari vintage clip-on earrings for $50 on Etsy. If you suspect your earrings may have value, get an appraisal from a qualified jeweler. From there, you'll know which pairs to repurpose and which to save.