Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This vibrant mid-century costume brooch by Sarah Coventry features a stylized sunflower or pinwheel floral motif in bright rhodium-plated metal. It is set with pavé-style champagne or pale yellow chaton rhinestones across curved petals, centered by a dome of sparkling green aurora borealis crystal rhinestones.
Story
Founded in 1949, Sarah Coventry never sold jewelry in stores. Instead, suburban women hosted living-room 'fashion parties,' turning everyday homemakers into glamorous entrepreneurs with pieces exactly like this.
Maker / Origin
Established by Charles H. Stuart and named after his granddaughter Sarah, Sarah Coventry pioneered direct-to-consumer home jewelry parties alongside sister company Emmons. They did not manufacture pieces in-house, but rather contracted top jewelry makers across Rhode Island and New York to produce exceptionally well-plated, durable costume lines.
Condition & Value
Very good vintage condition. The rhodium plating remains bright with negligible surface wear, the rollover pin mechanism functions properly, and all rhinestones and aurora borealis stones are present and clear. Sarah Coventry pieces were produced in large quantities, making them accessible collectibles.
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.