RARE Bill Schiffer Large Abstract "Skyline" Lucite and Rhinestone Earrings Circa 1987

Measurements: 2.5"L x 2.5"W x .5"Thick (6.35cm x 6.35cm x 1.27cm)

Markings: B Schiffer © 1987

Weight: 23.7g

Another fantastic estate find from the wonderfully imaginative world of Bill Schiffer, these dramatic statement earrings are from his Skyline collection and are pure wearable art.

The oversized architectural form resembles a stylized evening gown or glittering city silhouette, with a black ground densely embellished in a playful assortment of colorful rhinestones, crystals and decorative elements. Tiny silver-toned studs create additional texture across the surface, while vibrant accents of pink, red, blue, green, gold and iridescent tones keep the eye moving across the design.

Bold, whimsical and unapologetically maximalist, they beautifully capture Schiffer’s distinctive approach to jewelry — part sculpture, part fashion and entirely fun.

Metallic eyeshadow and excessive use of Aqua Net hairspray remain entirely optional. 😂

The earrings have been professionally converted to pierced post backs using surgical-steel stems and are fitted with sterling silver butterfly backs. All rhinestones and decorative elements are present, secure and intact.

They remain in excellent vintage condition with only minor wear consistent with age.

A fabulous example of Bill Schiffer’s colorful New York wearable-art jewelry and an especially eye-catching piece for collectors of postmodern design, 1980s/1990s statement jewelry and American studio fashion.

About Bill Schiffer

New York artist and jewelry designer Bill Schiffer began creating wearable art jewelry in the 1970s, developing a distinctive style centered around bold color, abstract composition and visual movement.

His early work incorporated hand-painted resin and later expanded to include crystals, rhinestones, silver, gold and other materials, allowing him to create increasingly elaborate sculptural jewelry.

Schiffer’s colorful designs attracted the attention of major retailers including Bloomingdale’s and Saks Fifth Avenue, where his jewelry was sold for many years. He also operated a gallery and studio in Soho, placing his wearable art within the center of New York’s downtown art and fashion scene.

His jewelry is particularly recognizable for its exuberant color combinations, playful abstraction and ability to make the wearer — and often everyone around them — smile.