Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A striking mid-century costume jewelry brooch featuring deep garnet-red frosted glass marquise cabochons alongside iridescent Aurora Borealis rhinestones. Set in layered pronged gold-tone metal, this piece highlights the glamorous 1950s obsession with dimensional theatrical sparkle.
Story
Swarovski introduced the shimmering Aurora Borealis coating in 1955 alongside Christian Dior. Jewelry makers instantly paired these iridescent stones with warm, frosted glass cabochons to create hypnotic, multidimensional light effects for evening wear.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, the open-backed claw settings, layered construction, and rolled pinstem pin mechanism are characteristic of mid-century makers like Regency, DeLizza & Elster (Juliana), or high-end Czechoslovakian exporters who produced quality costume pieces for department stores.
Condition & Value
Appears to be in very good vintage condition with bright plating and secure prongs. The pin stem and rollover safety clasp on the brooch back are intact. Minor surface lint present, but no missing stones or heavy verdigris visible.
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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.