estateRUTH.

Identification

Unsigned Mid-Century Gold-Tone and Faux Pearl Botanical Brooch

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

The brooch features a brushed gold-tone finish on the front, a textured reverse, and a modern rollover safety clasp, all of which are strong construction diagnostics for mid-20th-century (1950s-1970s) costume jewelry.

Story

This botanical design, featuring brushed gold-tone metal and faux pearl accents, is characteristic of the 'Golden Age' of American costume jewelry (1950s-1970s). During this era, both major design houses and unbranded manufacturers produced elegant, naturalistic sprays to adorn lapels and coats. The specific manufacturer remains unconfirmed pending a detailed inspection of the reverse. The secondary market for mid-century costume jewelry is highly saturated but maintains steady demand for classic botanical and faux pearl designs.

Maker / Origin

Unattributed

Condition & Value

Based on the visible photos, the brooch appears to be in good vintage condition with intact faux pearls and a consistent brushed gold-tone finish on the front. The structural integrity of the rollover clasp and the condition of the plating on the reverse remain unverified.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Market Analysis

The secondary market for mid-century costume jewelry is highly saturated but maintains steady demand for classic botanical and faux pearl designs. Unsigned pieces typically move as accessible fashion accessories on platforms like Etsy and Mercari, trading in the $15 to $30 range. Signed pieces from recognized 'Golden Age' makers command stronger collector interest and retail premiums, though fast-paced auction platforms still see them sell near the unsigned baseline.

Value Drivers

▲ Classic mid-century botanical design with faux pearl accents maintains consistent buyer appeal.

▲ Brushed gold-tone finish appears intact on the obverse, supporting the baseline decorative value.

▲ Recent sales of visually identical unsigned floral sprays strongly anchor the $15-$20 floor.

Concerns

▼ Unverified reverse — a confirmed absence of a maker's mark would solidify the item in the lower unbranded tier.

▼ Unverified clasp functionality — a broken or replaced pin stem would severely discount the piece.

▼ Unverified dimensions — if the brooch is unusually small (under 1.5 inches), it may command less than standard-sized statement pieces.

Best Venue

List on a vintage-focused marketplace like Etsy or Ruby Lane to maximize retail visibility. Before listing, carefully inspect the reverse with a loupe for any hidden maker's marks or copyright symbols, as identifying a brand like Trifari or Boucher would significantly alter the listing strategy and price point.

Upside Potential

If a close inspection of the reverse reveals a signature from a highly collectible mid-century maker such as Crown Trifari or Marcel Boucher, the value range would shift upward into the $40-$75 collector tier, as demonstrated by the verified Trifari comparables.

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Also found — market-range context

Related comps outside the valuation band· 5 comps

Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.

  • Wit & Whim
    Vintage Early Miriam Haskell Unsigned Faux Pearl Clear & Aurora Borealis Rhinestone Gold Tone Brooch
    Attributed to Miriam Haskell and includes rhinestones, representing a different market tier and style.
    $205
  • Gem
    Vintage SARAH COVENTRY Botanical Oak Leaf Statement Brooch Pin Green Enamel 3”
    Features green enamel and lacks faux pearls; signed Sarah Coventry.
    $49
  • Etsy
    Vintage Rose Gold Filled Brooch, Faux Pearl Filigree, Midcentury Signed TLC
    Rose gold filled and filigree style represent a different material and design aesthetic.
    $23
  • Curtsy
    Vintage Basket Flower Brooch In Gold Tone With Faux Seed Pearls
    Link could not be verified.
    $20
  • Main Auction Galleries· 2020-06-15
    Trifari – Necklace Faux Pearls & Mother of Pearl Set
    Necklace set, not a brooch.
    $20