can anyone help identify what these are used for

[chalimarr]

I thought at first they were a unique cuff link design but if i could get proffesional help to identify what they are i would appreciatte it .Thanks

[orascottage]

I have no idea, but could it be a hair barrette/jewel. You would pull the clasp back and slip the pin into it?

[chalimarr]

THANK YOU  JUST TO ADD THERE ARE A PAIR OF THESE

[dcintennessee]

Are they too large to be an early version of pierced earrings? Looks like you'd hook it through the ear & slide the stem into the loop area. 

[chalimarr]

thank you but i don,t believe they are earrings not at all sure though  because the hook and clasp would be seen and the hook is fairly large  i appreciatte your help thank you

[dcintennessee]

Darn. What's the length from end-to-end?

[chalimarr]

ABOUT 1" TY

[woodw_sandr]

These are Judith McCann style "Wingback" earrings, invented by her in the 1940's and may have been copied by others.  If they are McCann's there will probably be wingback stamped on the wire.

They were designed to have the "wings" slip into the upper part of the front earlobe and the straight shaft went up the back.  Google Judith McCann for more info.

[dcintennessee]

Very interesting! And she was from tiny Trenton, Tennessee, like my grandmother.

[chalimarr]

THANK YOU SO MUCH YOU ARE CORRECT I MISSED THAT MARKING ORIGINALLY BUT THEY ARE DEFINETLY STAMPED WINGBACK WITH A PAT NO. THANK YOU SO MUCH 

[woodw_sandr]

You are very welcome chalimarr, glad I could help.