Vintage 14K Yellow Gold Filigree Flower Brooch with Turquoise and Seed Pearls
Brooch / Pin · Yellow Gold. The alloy likely contains copper and silver to achieve its warm, classic golden hue.
Purity: 14K (58.5% pure gold). This status is common for mid-20th-century jewelry, balancing durability with precious metal value.
Type
Brooch / Pin
Purity
14K (58.5% pure gold). This status is common for mid-20th-century jewelry, balancing durability with precious metal value.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. The alloy likely contains copper and silver to achieve its warm, classic golden hue.
Weight
8 to 12 grams. The weight is influenced by the density of the 14K gold frame despite the airy filigree design.
Description
This elegant five-petal flower brooch showcases intricate 14K yellow gold filigree work. Each petal is meticulously crafted with open-work gold threads and bordered by a scalloped edge. The alternating rows of turquoise-colored cabochons and creamy seed pearls provide a soft, feminine contrast to the vibrant gold, radiating from a central pearl cluster. It represents the height of mid-century floral jewelry design.
Key Features
Hand-applied filigree wirework, distinctive five-point star/flower silhouette, and the classic 'Victorian Revival' color palette of turquoise and pearl.
Color & Finish
Rich yellow gold with a textured, matte-satin finish on the filigree wirework and high-polish accents on the petal borders.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped '14K' or '585' on the pin stem or the reverse of a petal. May include a small maker's mark or 'USA' stamp.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 35mm to 40mm in diameter (1.4 to 1.6 inches). A standard 'statement' size for vintage lapel pins.
Gemstones & Inlays
Consists of round cabochon turquoise (simulated or genuine) and seed pearls. The stones are set in a linear pattern within the petals.
Clasp & Closure
Typical revolving safety clasp (trombone or rollover style) with a hinged pin stem, integrated into the back of the gold frame.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The structural frame uses a wired filigree technique where fine gold threads are twisted into decorative patterns.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast gold base frame with hand-set stones and soldered filigree elements. The symmetry of the petals indicates high-quality precision casting or master-model manufacturing.
Authentication Indicators
Color uniformity suggests solid gold rather than plating; crispness of the filigree edges; weight appearing appropriate for the metal volume shown.
Origin & Maker
Likely manufactured in the United States or Italy. Unbranded high-quality boutique production or a specific maker like Krementz or Tiffany (if marked).
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Retro (circa 1950s-1960s). The floral motif and use of turquoise and pearls are hallmarks of post-war costume and fine jewelry crossover.
Age Estimate
Latter half of the 20th century, approximately 50-70 years old (c. 1955-1965).
Cultural Significance
Brooches were the premier accessory for mid-century fashion, used to secure scarves or accent coat lapels, symbolizing refined status and femininity.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Some surface patina/oxidization in deep crevices; turquoise stones appear uniform, though some pearls may show minor luster loss due to age.
Value Estimate
$450 - $750. Value is derived from the 14K gold melt weight (approx. $300-$400) plus a significant premium for the vintage design and craftsmanship.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use ultrasonic cleaners or chemicals, as turquoise is porous and pearls are organic and easily damaged.
Similar Items
Victorian 15ct gold Etruscan revival pins; 1950s Trifari costume brooches (non-gold); contemporary 18k floral pins by Van Cleef & Arpels.
Interesting Facts
Turquoise and seed pearl combinations were heavily popularized by Queen Victoria; this 1960s piece is a 'revival' of that romantic 19th-century aesthetic.