Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This exquisite vintage brooch features a lush cluster of amethyst-hued and crystal-clear rhinestones atop stylized textured silver-tone leaves. Crafted by the renowned Pennino Brothers, it showcases their signature fine-jewelry construction, complete with multi-part assembly joined by a tiny flat-head screw on the reverse.
Story
Founded in New York in 1926 by Italian immigrant goldsmiths, Pennino Brothers brought authentic fine-jewelry techniques directly to American costume design. Their pieces were sold in high-end department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue.
Maker / Origin
The Pennino brothers—Oreste, Frank, and Jack—emigrated from Naples, Italy, carrying generations of traditional Italian metalworking mastery. Unlike manufacturers focused on mass production, Pennino treated costume jewelry with the same reverence as precious gems, utilizing hand-setting, rhodium plating, and complex screwed assemblies.
Condition & Value
Excellent vintage condition. All original rhinestones remain present, vibrant, and securely set. Microscopic surface wear on the reverse consistent with age, but the pin mechanism and construction screw remain in perfect working order.
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.