Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A tiered triangular costume brooch composed of antiqued gold-tone cast filigree openwork, prong-set with an array of amethyst-hued, lilac, and iridescent aurora borealis rhinestones. The layered botanical swirl design and roll-over safety clasp are hallmarks of mid-century fashion jewelry.
Story
In 1955, Christian Dior partnered with Swarovski to coat crystal stones in vaporized metal, creating the rainbow-reflecting Aurora Borealis coating seen sparkling across this mid-century brooch.
Maker / Origin
Mid-century costume jewelry flourished in hubs like Rhode Island, New York, and Gablonz/Austria, where manufacturers produced both signed collections for high-end department stores and unsigned lines sold via boutique distributors and wholesalers.
Condition & Value
Very good vintage condition. All prongs appear intact with no visibly missing stones, bright crystal foiling, and a functioning roll-over pin mechanism. Excellent stone retention preserves maximum secondary value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.