Identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A sparkling mid-century costume jewelry brooch designed as a dimensional snowflake or starburst, set in rhodium-plated metal. It features brilliant-cut round chatons and crisp baguette-cut clear crystal rhinestones in individual prong settings.
Story
Likely manufactured in the United States or Austria during the 1950s or 1960s, a golden era for high-quality costume jewelry. During this period, rhodium plating and prong-set Austrian or Czech crystal rhinestones were standard for mid-tier to high-end fashion pieces. Without a maker's mark, it is attributed as a generic but representative example of mid-century craftsmanship.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
Based on the description, the brooch features crisp stones in individual prong settings and intact rhodium plating. Value in clear rhinestone jewelry is highly dependent on the stones remaining bright; any yellowing, 'dead' stones, or verdigris on the metal would significantly impact desirability.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Mid-century clear rhinestone costume jewelry remains a staple in the vintage secondary market, appealing heavily to bridal, holiday, and vintage fashion buyers. While highly abundant, dimensional starburst and snowflake designs are classic motifs that sell reliably. However, they generally trade at modest price points unless attached to a major designer name.
▲ Classic mid-century starburst/snowflake motif maintains consistent seasonal and bridal demand.
▲ Rhodium-plated metal and prong-set construction indicate good vintage manufacturing quality.
▲ Combination of baguette and round chaton cuts adds dimensional visual interest.
▼ Lack of a designer signature limits the ceiling to the generic vintage costume jewelry tier.
▼ Unverified stone clarity — any yellowing or 'dead' stones not visible in initial review would drop value significantly.
▼ Unverified pin mechanism — a bent or broken clasp would require repair and discount the price.
Best Venue
List on a vintage-friendly marketplace like Etsy or eBay with clear, well-lit photos highlighting the sparkle and dimensional structure against a dark background. A fast-sale price of $35 is recommended, or list at $50 with offers accepted. Thoroughly check the back with a loupe for any faint maker's marks before listing.
Upside Potential
If a close inspection of the reverse reveals a desirable designer signature (such as Weiss, Eisenberg, Kramer, or Bogoff), the valuation range would shift upward to the $75–$120 tier.