Fulco di Verdura (1898–1978) is not exactly a household name, except for those who know a thing or two about highly original, often eccentric handcrafted earrings and bracelets, and, even more so, for those fortunate enough to own some. In that exclusive group, Verdura is regarded as the most gifted and coveted designer of his time.
Verdura was born in Sicily in 1898, the scion of a noble family related to the Lampedusas. (His cousin, Giuseppe di Lampedusa, wrote the great Italian saga The Leopard). His life was charmed from birth. Raised in his family’s villa, he grew up during a time when Sicily, and Palermo in particular, were meccas for well-born and highly cultured European travelers.
A bona fide duke with no clear ambitions but creative leanings aplenty (he could draw and paint), the young Verdura was part of the wandering social circuit — the so-called beau monde — that went from capital to capital, resort to resort.
Verdura, though small in stature, had that indefinable quality called charm. As a result, he was the life of every party he attended. When he finally started designing jewelry under Coco Chanel in the late 1920s, many of his friends became his clients (or received the pieces as gifts).
Elsa Maxwell took him under her ample wing when she was hired to do public relations for the Lido in Venice and introduced him to the local and visiting cognoscenti. Chanel, whom he met in Venice, hired him to work in the textiles division of her fashion house. But it was his flair for jewelry that soon caught Coco’s eye. Eventually, he rose to become her personal designer of fine jewelry.
In 2002’s Verdura: The Life and Work of a Master Jeweler (Thames & Hudson), Vanity Fair’s Amy Fine Collins describes the sensation of wearing pieces by Verdura, who drew inspiration from nature for his signature gem-studded seashell brooches and honeybee earrings.
“They were ingeniously calculated to flatter the wearer,” writes Collins. “Earrings undulated to complement the convolutions of an earlobe, rings seductively followed the phalanges of a finger, and necklaces gracefully traced the anatomy of the throat.”
In 1934, Verdura left Chanel and together with two friends, aspiring actress Princess Natalia Pavlovna Paley and Baron Nicholas de Gunzburg, moved to the U.S. After several stops, he found a job through Diana Vreeland in Hollywood with Paul Flato, then the “jeweler to the stars.” Soon he was signing his work and helping Flato cultivate the crème de la creme of the silver screen — those both on it and behind it.
Verdura left Los Angeles for New York and opened his own salon, first on Fifth Avenue in 1939, just as World War II was beginning in Europe. His backers were Vincent Astor and Cole Porter, for whom he made bejeweled boxes and cigarette cases — gifts from Porter’s wife, Linda — to commemorate the opening nights of several musicals.
Verdura began to expand both his repertoire — he became much more daring and flamboyant — and his clientele. The Duchess of Windsor, Daisy Fellowes, Greta Garbo and others routinely gave him commissions. In 1941, Verdura collaborated on a collection of six pieces with Salvador Dalí to accompany a Dalí exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art. Verdura retired in 1972 and left the care of the company to his partner, Joseph Alfano. He later moved to London, where he died in 1978 at the age of 79.
Among the most prized pieces on display in a 2014 Verdura jewelry exhibition in New York were Greta Garbo’s curb-link bracelet watch, which Verdura designed for her in 1939; Coco Chanel’s pair of Maltese Cross cuff bracelets (she wore one on each wrist); and Diana Vreeland’s duo of Byzantine brooches.
Find a range of vintage Verdura jewelry today on 1stDibs.
Verdura 18k Yellow Gold Black Jade Pearl Shell Earrings
By Verdura
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Verdura carved black jade spiral shell earrings in 18k yellow gold, featuring a spiral of gold wire coil and bezel-set cultured pearl accents. Pearl Accents: Each earring has seven ...
Pearl, Jade, Black Jade, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
VERDURA Milano Caged White Coral French Clips-On Earrings In 18Kt Yellow Gold
By Verdura
Located in Miami, FL
Pair of clips-on earrings designed by Verdura. This exceptional pair of clip-on earrings was created in Milan, Italy, by the celebrated jewelry house Verdura. Showcasing the brand's...
Coral, Gold, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
VERDURA 18K Yellow Gold Garnet Cornucopia Earrings VD04-042026
By Verdura
Located in Southampton, PA
The classic cornucopia is reinvented on these chic Verdura earrings. Multicolored Garnets add texture and dimension to the contemporary design. Crafted from 18K Yellow Gold, each ear...
Garnet, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Verdura 18K Yellow Gold Braided X Motif Clip On Earrings
By Verdura
Located in Palm Beach, FL
From the house of Verdura, these wonderful X motif, braided earrings were designed and created. Four double strands of deftly pulled 18K yellow gold rope intertwine to create this lovely and very wearable pair of everyday earrings. They measure 3/4 inch in diameter and rise 3/8 inch above the ear, when worn. Equipped with secure, fold down, Omega style, clip backs. A raised gold plate...
Gold, 18k Gold
22K Yellow Gold Victorian Coin Cluster Lever Back Statement Earrings
By Verdura
Located in Miami, FL
A pair of substantial 22K yellow gold Indian Victorian-style coin-motif earrings, each featuring four overlapping medallion discs arranged in a dimensional fan-shaped cluster. The me...
Gold, 22k Gold, Yellow Gold
$22,320Sale Price / set|20% Off
VERDURA Milan Dots Clip Earrings In 18Kt Yellow Gold & Carved Tiger Eye
By Verdura
Located in Miami, FL
Pair of clip on earrings designed by Verdura. This is a fabulous pair of clip-on earrings created in Milano Italy by the renowned jewelry house of Verdura. These aesthetic free form...
Tiger's Eye, Gold, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
Verdura Byzantine White Topaz Pendant Earrings
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
Verdura Byzantine pendant earrings in 18k yellow gold. Each earring features three geometric shape White topazes, each set in 18k yellow gold. Equipped with the posts and omega clips...
Topaz, 18k Gold
Verdura Fulco Color Stone Black Enamel Yellow Gold Earrings
By Verdura
Located in Southampton, PA
18k Yellow Gold Emerald, Ruby, Sapphire, Amethyst, Garnet, Aquamarine, Tanzanite, Rubellite, Citrine and Black enamel Fulco earrings by Verdura. With Ruby, Sapphire, Amethyst, Garne...
Aquamarine, Tanzanite, Blue Sapphire, Ruby, Rubelite, Garnet, Emerald, A...
Verdura Vintage Diamond Mabe Pearl Yellow Gold & Platinum Large Earrings
By Verdura
Located in Southampton, PA
18k Yellow Gold and Platinum Vintage Diamond Mabe Pearl Large Earrings by Verdura. Behold the timeless sophistication of these Authentic! Vintage Verdura 18k Yellow Gold Mabe Pearl ...
Diamond, Pearl, Yellow Gold, Platinum
$11,160Sale Price / set|20% Off
VERDURA Milan Twisted Sculptural Clips-Earrings In Solid 18Kt Yellow Gold
By Verdura
Located in Miami, FL
Pair of clip-earrings designed by Verdura. This is a beautiful and very wearable pair of clips-on earrings created in Milano, Italy by the renowned jewelry house of Verdura. This ev...
Gold, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
Pair of Verdura 18k Yellow Gold and Platinum Diamond Swirl Earrings
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
The earrings: Designed as a pair of swirls in eighteen karat yellow gold and platinum set with (34) round brilliant cut diamonds weighing approximately 0.70 carat total. They are acc...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Vintage 1960s Verdura Coral and Gold Earrings
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
Finely crafted in 18k yellow gold with Coral. Signed by Verdura 1 1/4 x 3/4 inches
Coral, 18k Gold
$10,320Sale Price|20% Off
Verdura Milan 18Kt Yellow Gold Earrings with 11.8 Cts of Vivid Purple Amethyst
By Verdura
Located in Miami, FL
A pair of earrings designed by Verdura. Beautiful and colorful pieces crafted by the house of Verdura. This pair of iconic earrings has been made in solid yellow gold of 18 karats, ...
Amethyst, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Verdura Vintage Pineapple Diamond Platinum & Yellow Gold Earrings
By Verdura
Located in Southampton, PA
Platinum and 18k Yellow Gold Diamond Vintage Pineapple Earrings by Verdura. Crafted in 18k yellow gold and platinum, Verdura’s pineapple earrings shimmer with pavé-set round and bag...
Diamond, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Verdura 18k Yellow Gold Floral Clip On Earrings W/Box
By Verdura
Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY
These stunning earrings, crafted in 2000, are a perfect blend of elegance and sophistication. Made from high-quality 18k gold, they feature a captivating twisted design that adds a u...
18k Gold
Gold Platinum Diamond Earrings by Verdura
By Verdura
Located in Austin, TX
A beautiful and classic pair of Verdura 18k yellow gold and platinum set diamond clip earrings. The total diamond weight is 1.0 carats. The total earring weight is 24.1 grams. ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
$12,600Sale Price / set|20% Off
VERDURA PARIS 1950 Clips On Mercury Wings Earrings In 18Kt Gold & White Pearls
By Verdura
Located in Miami, FL
Mercury Wings clips-on earrings designed by Verdura. This is a very rare and interesting pair of clips-on earrings created in Paris France by the renowned jewelry house of Verdura b...
Pearl, Gold, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
$10,388Sale Price / set|20% Off
Verdura 1960 Clips On Earrings 18Kt Yellow Gold With 2.02 Ctw Diamonds & Rubies
By Verdura
Located in Miami, FL
Pair of clips-on earrings designed by Verdura. A fabulous pair of clip-on earrings, created in Milano Italy by the renowned jewelry house of Verdura. These vintage ear clips are col...
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Verdura Diamond Platinum and 18 Karat Gold Acorn Earrings
By Verdura
Located in New York City, NY
Fine pair of diamond, platinum and 18K yellow gold earrings by Verdura. Resembling acorns, they are adorned with high grade round brilliant cut diamonds over a very detailed gold and...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Vintage Verdura Citrine Green Tourmaline Yellow Gold Earrings
By Verdura
Located in Southampton, PA
18k Yellow Gold citrine and green tourmaline vintage earrings by Verdura. With 18 cabochon green Tourmalines 4mmx6mm 2 cabochon Citrines 8.5mm x 11mm These earrings are made for non...
Citrine, Tourmaline, Yellow Gold
Verdura 18K Yellow and Platinum Diamond Pineapple Earrings
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
18K yellow gold and platinum diamond pineapple clip-on earrings. Set with 60 round diamonds approx 2.50 cts and 16 baguette diamonds approx 0.50ct, approx E color and VS clarity. Mea...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Verdura Turquoise, Cabochon Sapphire and Diamond Hoop Earrings
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
Verdura Turquoise, Cabochon Sapphire and Diamond Hoop Earrings Description: These bold and sculptural hoop earrings by Verdura showcase a lattice of vivid blue cabochon turquoise an...
Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Turquoise, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Verdura Caged Diamond Rock Crystal Yellow Gold Drop Earrings
By Verdura
Located in Southampton, PA
18k Yellow Gold Diamond and Rock Crystal Caged Earrings by Verdura. With Rock Crystal and 2 bezel set round brilliant cut diamonds. These earrings are for pierced ears. Retail Price...
Lapis Lazuli, Crystal, Diamond, Rock Crystal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Verdura Citrine & Diamond Dangle Earrings
By Verdura
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Delicately hand-crafted in 18 karat yellow and white gold by the renowned, effortlessly chic house of Verdura, these elegant earrings embody timeless sophistication and refined artis...
Citrine, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Verdura Kensington 18K White Gold and Diamond Pendant Earrings
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
The earrings: Each a brightly polished eighteen karat white gold pendant in the form of an open latticework set with "106" round brilliant cut diamonds throughout weighing approximat...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$8,350Sale Price|34% Off
H 0.28 in W 0.62 in D 0.24 in L 1.42 in
Lilly Fitzgerald Collectors Rainbow Moonstone 22k Yellow Gold Handmade Earrings
By Lilly Fitzgerald
Located in Dallas, TX
One of a Kind Earrings hand-fabricated by master jewelry maker Lilly Fitzgerald featuring an exceptional quality, very rare pair of faceted rose-cut rainbow moonstones totaling 16.5 carats, lit dramatically with rainbow adularesence in a striated pattern that glows ethereally across the surface and back in each gem. The phenomenal pair is intricately secured by cylindrical double prongs and embellished bezel-setting, dangling beneath hand-built 22k yellow gold accenting and 18k yellow gold ear wires. About the Maker - Lilly Fitzgerald is a master goldsmith based in Spencer, Massachusetts. Though essentially self-taught, Fitzgerald studied fine art and painting at museum schools in Montreal and Worcester...
Moonstone, Rainbow Moonstone, Gold, 22k Gold, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
CARTIER PARIS 1960s Knot Clip Earrings in 18kt yellow Gold
By Cartier
Located in Aventura, FL
This elegant pair of knot earrings by Cartier Paris, dating to the 1960s, is expertly crafted in a striking combination of 18kt yellow and white gold. The timeless knot motif exemplifies Cartier’s signature blend of Parisian sophistication and enduring luxury. These vintage earrings make a refined statement, perfectly suited for collectors and connoisseurs of iconic jewelry design. Brand: Cartier Paris Period: Circa 1960s Metal: 18K Yellow Gold & 18K White Gold Design: Knot motif Measurements: 1.00 x 0.55 inches (25.4 x 14.0 mm) Total weight: 18.2 grams / 11.7 dwt (pair) Stamped: CARTIER PARIS OR 40549 Collateral: Comes with Cartier Vintage Box...
Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Orange/Pink Coral Buttons, 18K Yellow Gold Clip-on Earrings
Located in Napoli, Campania
Earrings in 18k yellow gold mounted with coral buttons. Coral 16.50 gr Tot.Weight 24.60 R.F +IUIA RK.ACOI98 For any inquiries,please contact the selle...
Coral, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$2,821
W 0.52 in L 0.91 in
Handcrafted 18K Hammered Yellow Gold 0.04 Karat Black Diamonds Stud Earrings
By Rossella Ugolini
Located in Rome, IT
Rossella Ugolini Collection Handcrafted 18K Hammered Yellow Gold 0.004 Karat Black Diamonds Snake Stud Earrings. A beautiful pair of stud earrings openly inspired by the ancient pai...
Black Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Andrew Clunn 18kt Gold Clip Earrings Watermelon Classic
By Andrew Clunn
Located in New York, NY
Designer Andrew Clunn Watermelon Textured Clip Earrings Measurements: 26 x 20mm Depth: 13mm Comfortable Omega Clip 30 grams / 18kt. Yellow Gold Earrings are gorgeous made
18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
Nicholas Varney, 18K Yellow Gold Earrings
By Nicholas Varney
Located in Chicago, IL
These playful earrings by designer Nicholas Varney, are beautifully made with imense attention to detail. In a ridged knot design, these are perfect for an everyday look or can be dr...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Sapphire Diamond Earrings Cocktail Large Floral Earrings 18kt White Gold Clips
Located in Jupiter, FL
Exquisite craftsmanship on these omega backing cocktail earrings, you can wear if you have pierced ears or not. These earrings are made in 18KT white gold with natural sapphires and ...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
Verdura Diamond Platinum and 18 Karat Gold Acorn Earrings
By Verdura
Located in New York City, NY
Fine pair of diamond, platinum and 18K yellow gold earrings by Verdura. Resembling acorns, they are adorned with high grade round brilliant cut diamonds over a very detailed gold and...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Turquoise Bezel Earrings in 22K Yellow Gold
By Bracken Jewelers
Located in Santa Monica, CA
These Greco Earrings by Bracken Jewelers feature striking turquoise cabochons in 22K yellow gold bezels. The design is inspired by ancient Greco jewelry. Handcrafted, made in Los Ang...
Turquoise, Gold, 22k Gold, Yellow Gold
Italian Hammered 18K Yellow Gold Clip-On Hoop Earrings
Located in Monte Carlo, MC
These elegant clip-on earrings are crafted in hammered 18K yellow gold, forming a refined, sculptural hoop that catches the light with every movement. The textured surface gives them...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
$6,850
H 0.91 in W 0.6 in
Vintage 18 K Yellow Gold Earclips Bulgari Torumaline Peridot Cornucopia Earrings
By Bulgari
Located in Zurich, Zollstrasse
An iconic set of 18 K yellow Gold Cornucopia earclips showcasing 1 fancy cut Briolette pink Tourmaline and 1 fancy cut Peridot. 2.3 cm height and 1.5 cm wide. 18.52 grams. Stamped 7...
Peridot, Tourmaline, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Pearl and Multi-Gem 18K Yellow Gold Earrings
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This bold and eye-catching pair of 18K yellow gold earrings features two lustrous white mabe pearls, each measuring 15 mm in diameter with a soft, rosy overtone. The chunky, close-to...
Diamond, Emerald, Pearl, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Verdura 18 Karat Yellow Gold Earrings
By Verdura
Located in Zurich, CH
Stylish pair of 18 Karat Yellow Gold Earrings by Verdura. Crafted in 18 karat ribbed yellow gold and designed as sculpted leaves, these beautiful earrings are meant to be worn up the...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Verdura 18k Gold Topaz Byzantine Pendant Earclips
By Verdura
Located in Palm Beach, FL
The Byzantine pendant earring by Verdura in 18k yellow gold and white topaz. Clip tops are bezel set with hexagonal faceted colorless topaz and can be worn alone or with detachable drop bottoms. Drops are each set with a smaller round faceted topaz attached to a larger faceted shield shape colorless topaz bottom. This Verdura earclip...
Topaz, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Estate Verdura Caged Rock Crystal 18k Yellow Gold Earrings
By Verdura
Located in Santa Barbara, CA
From the Caged Collection by Verdura, these caged rock crystal earrings are a testament to the man who redefined 20th-century style. Elegant yet playful, you will enjoy wearing these...
Rock Crystal, Crystal, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Verdura Byzantine Blue & White Pendant Earrings
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
Verdura Byzantine blue and white pendant earrings in 18k yellow gold. Each earring features round blue topaz on the top, with geometric shape white topaz suspended on the bottom. Cra...
Blue Topaz, 18k Gold
Verdura 18k Yellow Gold Tiger Eye Shell Earrings
By Verdura
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Verdura carved tiger eye's spiral shell earrings in 18k yellow gold. The tiger eye displays stripes of rich shades of light and dark brown with a spiral of gold wire coil and polishe...
Tiger's Eye, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
VERDURA Byzantine Theodora Peridot White Topaz Pearl Earrings
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
A pair of 18 karat yellow gold, peridot, white topaz and pearl earclips, Verdura, Italy. Each Byzantine Theodora drop earclip designed as a square faceted peridot suspending a round...
Verdura Dome Diamond Clip-on Earrings 18K White Gold
By Verdura
Located in Dallas, TX
Verdura Dome Diamond Clip-on Earrings in 18K White Gold. The earrings feature a double row of brilliant round diamonds running across the satin finish dome earrings. The earrings hav...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Verdura 18k Gold Amethyst Diamond Paisley Earrings
By Verdura
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Verdura amethyst and diamond 'Paisley' cluster earrings. Handmade in 18k yellow gold and white gold. Sixteen amethysts weighing approximately 22 total carats. Twenty-six round brilli...
Amethyst, Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, White Gold
Verdura Pair of 18K Gold, Onyx and Citrine 'Cross-Over' Twisted Ribbon Earclips
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
Verdura Pair of 18K Gold, Onyx and Citrine 'Cross-Over' Twisted Ribbon Earclips Details: 18 kt., 2 oval citrines, signed Verdura, no. 23236, ap. Length: 3cm Hallmarked: VERDURA 750...
Citrine, Onyx, 18k Gold
Sold
H 1.06 in W 1.06 in D 0.51 in
VERDURA Milano Clips-On Earrings In 18Kt White Gold With 1.78 Ctw VS Diamonds
By Verdura
Located in Miami, FL
Pair of clips-on earrings designed by Verdura. This is a gorgeous pair of clips-on earrings, created in Milano Italy by the renowned jewelry house of Verdura. These spherical clips ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, White Gold, 18k Gold
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H 1.07 in W 0.91 in D 0.32 in
VERDURA Milan 1960 Iconic Twisted Leaves Clips On Earrings In 18Kt Yellow Gold
By Verdura
Located in Miami, FL
Clips-on earrings designed by Verdura. This is an iconic pair of clips-on earrings created in Milano Italy by the renowned jewelry house of Verdura back in the 1960. These iconic tw...
Gold, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
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H 1.02 in D 0.51 in L 1.02 in
VERDURA Milano Enamel Bombe Clips-On Earrings 18Kt Gold & 1.56 Ctw Diamonds
By Verdura
Located in Miami, FL
Pair of enameled clips-on earrings designed by Verdura. This is a very rare pair of clips-on earrings, created in Milano Italy by the renowned jewelry house of Verdura. These round ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel, 18k Gold