Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A shimmering silver-tone butterfly accessory featuring openwork filigree wings encrusted with Aurora Borealis (AB) coated rhinestones. This versatile piece was designed with multiple loops on the reverse, allowing it to be worn as a statement brooch or a pendant on a chain.
Story
The 1950s saw Christian Dior and Swarovski collaborate to create the 'Aurora Borealis' coating, mimicking the Northern Lights. This later piece carries that mid-century glamour into a modern, accessible fashion statement.
Maker / Origin
While the 'CHINA' mark indicates mass production rather than a specific designer atelier, it represents the era when global manufacturing brought high-fashion 'sparkle' to the general public through department store costume jewelry.
Condition & Value
The front presents well with all stones appearing intact. The reverse shows significant oxidation and plating wear (pitting), which is common for base metal jewelry of this age. This wear slightly limits the value to the lower end of the range.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.