Store P87 Sun Burst Earrings: Vintage Clip-Ons That Double as Hair Ornaments

The Store P87 Sun Burst Earrings were designed in the early 1960s as clip-on earrings, but their lightweight spring mechanism quickly found a second life as hair ornaments. Pin one into a chignon or tuck it behind the ear for a half-up style—the sunburst motif, long a symbol of optimism in decorative arts, radiates energy without weighing down fine hair.

The design is unmistakable: a central dome, often set with a single faceted rhinestone or a polished cabochon, surrounded by a halo of radiating rays. The rays are typically die‑stamped from brass or a nickel‑silver alloy, then plated in gold or silver. Some later versions from the 1970s incorporate enamel in shades of coral, turquoise, or jet black. The Store P87 identifier refers to the factory code used by a small Birmingham workshop that specialised in high‑volume costume jewellery for the high street. Pieces marked “P87” are prized by collectors for their consistent quality and distinctive back stamp.

Why Wear Them in Your Hair?

Convertible accessories are a hallmark of thoughtful vintage design. The Store P87 earrings feature a hinged clip that grips firmly without pulling strands, making them safe for fine or delicate hair. Unlike many modern plastic clips, the metal spring retains its tension for decades if stored properly. Styling them as hair ornaments works best with a sleek low bun or a side‑swept French roll – the sunburst catches light and draws the eye upward, elongating the neck. For a more casual look, clip a single earring just above the temple to add a touch of mid‑century glamour to a simple ponytail.

Materials and Craftsmanship

The Store P87 pieces were produced during a transitional period in British costume jewellery. Post‑war austerity had given way to a hunger for affordable glamour, and workshops experimented with new alloys and electroplating techniques. The base metal is typically a brass alloy, chosen for its warm tone and ease of stamping. The rays are cut and shaped by hand after stamping, then buffed to remove sharp edges – a detail that matters when the accessory will sit against the scalp. Rhinestones are foiled and set in claw prongs, a method that allows light to pass through the stone and reflect off the foil, creating the characteristic sparkle of vintage pieces.

Enamel versions are rarer. The enamel is applied by hand in a technique called cloisonee à champlevé, where cells are etched into the metal and filled with powdered glass, then fired. These pieces often show slight colour variations, which is part of their charm. If you find a Store P87 with intact enamel, consider it a treasure – the glass is brittle and prone to chipping if knocked against a hard surface.

Collecting and Identifying Authentic Pieces

Because the P87 code was used by a single workshop over a relatively short period (roughly 1962–1975), the design remained consistent. Look for the following hallmarks of authenticity:

• A clear “P87” stamp on the inside of the clip, usually accompanied by “MADE IN ENGLAND”.
• A smooth, continuous curve to the rays – fakes often have blunt or uneven edges.
• A secure spring hinge that does not wobble when opened.
• Original patina on the metal, ranging from warm gold to a faint tarnish that can be polished gently with a soft cloth.

Many collectors pair the Sun Burst Earrings with other seaside‑inspired accessories, such as the starfish clip that recalls British coastal holidays. For a coordinated vintage look, consider combining them with a vintage starfish hair clip – both pieces share a similar scale and can be worn together on opposite sides of the head.

Care and Storage

Metal hair accessories require a different kind of attention than their modern plastic counterparts. The spring mechanism can weaken if left open for long periods, so always store the earrings closed. Keep them in a lined jewellery box or a soft pouch to prevent scratches. Avoid exposing them to hairspray or perfume, as the alcohol can dull the plating. If the rhinestones become cloudy, a gentle wipe with a damp cotton bud (not soaked) can restore clarity – but never submerge the piece in water, as moisture can rust the spring from the inside.

For more detailed advice on storing shell and metal clips, our guide on how to store a vintage P330 cowrie shell clip offers principles that apply equally to the Sun Burst Earrings.

Styling for Today

The beauty of the Store P87 Sun Burst Earrings lies in their adaptability. Wear them as intended – as earrings – for a polished vintage look, or repurpose one as a hair clip for a modern twist. Because the rays radiate outward, they work particularly well with geometric haircuts and minimalist clothing. A single piece clipped into a low ponytail adds a focal point without overwhelming the face. For evening, two pieces can be used to secure a twisted updo, creating a symmetrical sunburst effect on either side.

When inspecting a potential purchase, always test the clip on a small section of your own hair before committing. The tension should be firm enough to stay put but not so tight that it leaves a crease. A well‑maintained Store P87 will still feel as crisp as the day it was made – a reminder that mid‑century British workshops knew how to build things to last.