Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
An eye-catching mid-century costume brooch featuring a openwork textured brass frame set with rich topaz-brown chaton rhinestones and sparkling Aurora Borealis (AB) crystals. The elaborate open lattice work gives it a dramatic, dimensional foliage silhouette popular in mid-20th-century fashion.
Story
Swarovski premiered Aurora Borealis crystal coating in 1955 with Christian Dior, revolutionizing costume jewelry overnight. This brooch captures that late-mid-century glamor, catching blue, gold, and magenta light with every turn.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, this style of cast textured metalwork with glued or prong-set foil-backed rhinestones was widely produced by prominent American costume jewelers such as Weiss, Regency, and Kramer, as well as specialty exporters in West Germany during the 1960s.
Condition & Value
Very good vintage condition. All rhinestones appear intact and bright with minimal silvering loss. The pin stem and rollover clasp are fully functional. Unsigned vintage costume brooches in good, complete condition with working clasps typically sell in this accessible range online and in antique shops.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Your first full report is on us.
See sold comps, value drivers, and where to sell. One complimentary report, no card required.
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.