Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a quintessential piece of Americana costume jewelry shaped as Uncle Sam's iconic striped top hat. Crafted with prong-set red, clear, and sapphire-blue glass rhinestones, it features stamped white enamel metal star accents on a gold-tone articulated cup-chain backing.
Story
Patriotic rhinestone brooches surged across American lapels during the 1976 Bicentennial frenzy. Sold in department stores, they turned national symbolism into wearable, joyful sparkle.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, pieces of this exact cup-chain construction were mass-produced in costume jewelry hubs like Providence, Rhode Island and New York. Makers such as B. David, Eisenberg, and unbranded jobbers supplied department stores with festive novelty pins for holiday wardrobes.
Condition & Value
Good vintage condition with all rhinestones present and bright; slight aging to foil backs and light surface wear on the white star appliqués. The dangling bottom cup-chain segment is intact. Complete stones preserve full collector value.
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.