Estate 14K Yellow Gold Oval Cat’s Eye Quartz Stud Earrings

These vintage stud earrings feature two oval cat’s eye quartz cabochons set in 14K yellow gold with a stylized leaf and twig motif. The chatoyancy of the quartz—the shifting band of reflected light—gives each stone a glowing, almost otherworldly presence. At just over 5.5 carats total, the stones offer substantial visual weight while maintaining an elegant, wearable profile.

There’s a certain magic to cat’s eye quartz: it doesn’t just reflect light, it plays with it. Paired with the organic gold setting, these 1960s earrings feel both grounded and mystical—ideal for someone who loves subtle drama in classic form.

What Is Cat’s Eye Quartz?

Cat’s eye quartz is known for its striking optical effect called chatoyancy, where a narrow band of light seems to glide across the surface of the stone—resembling the slit eye of a cat. This phenomenon occurs due to fibrous inclusions or hollow tubes within the quartz, which reflect light in a concentrated band.

Historically used as a protective talisman, cat’s eye quartz has been prized for both its beauty and its symbolism. It’s often associated with intuition, focus, and clarity—making it a meaningful addition to both vintage and modern jewelry collections.