Overview
A charming mid-century costume jewelry lapel pin or tie tack featuring a bluebird in flight. It is crafted from gold-tone base metal with blue cold-enamel wings and a cluster of four clear glass rhinestones at the center.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
A charming mid-century costume jewelry lapel pin or tie tack featuring a bluebird in flight. It is crafted from gold-tone base metal with blue cold-enamel wings and a cluster of four clear glass rhinestones at the center.
Story
Bluebirds have been cherished symbols of joy and optimism for centuries, but they reached a fever pitch of popularity in the post-WWII era. This little bird was part of a movement of 'whimsical' jewelry designed to bring a smile to the wearer during a time of great social change.
Maker / Origin
While this piece is unsigned, it is consistent with the 'boutique' costume jewelry produced by companies like Coro, Trifari, or Sarah Coventry, who specialized in accessible luxury.
Condition & Value
The pin shows some expected wear consistent with age, including slight thinning of the enamel at the wingtips and tail. The gold-tone plating on the head shows minor oxidation, and the rhinestones appear to have retained their clarity. The presence of the original butterfly clutch back is a plus for wearability.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375