Bugbee & Niles orchid flower screwback earrings

These lovely mid-Century earrings by Bugbee and Niles resemble exotic orchids. The flowers are layered and dimensional with a mix of matt and gleaming rhodium plated petals at the centre of which nestles a sparkling claw set crystal.

The earrings measure 23 mm x 25 mm. The screw backs are secure and comfortable and are marked B.N. which dates them from the late 1940s or 1950s. They are in lovely vintage condition.

A matching brooch is available here.

Established in 1859, the Bugbee & Niles Company was one of New England’s earliest fine costume jewellery manufacturers. Operating out of Providence, Rhode Island, Bugbee & Niles survived over 130 years of history, weathering economic hardships like the Great Depression and World War II when production briefly ceased in 1943.

Throughout its long tenure, the brand became known for beautifully crafted pieces featuring gold and silver plating, rhinestones, crystals, and enamelling. During the mid-century costume jewellery boom in the 1940s and 1950s, the company crafted highly detailed pieces, including crystal-adorned orchid brooches and starburst pendants.