Vintage Gold-Plated Costume Flower Pendant with Aurora Borealis Rhinestones
Pendant (Floral Cluster) · Yellow Gold plating over base metal
Purity: Gold-plated base metal (likely brass or copper alloy); negligible gold content (less than 0.1%)
Type
Pendant (Floral Cluster)
Purity
Gold-plated base metal (likely brass or copper alloy); negligible gold content (less than 0.1%)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating over base metal
Weight
3 - 5 grams
Description
A charming mid-century floral cluster pendant featuring a central iridescent Aurora Borealis rhinestone surrounded by smaller floral motifs set with further AB and clear crystals. The piece embodies the post-war 'feminine' aesthetic of the 1950s.
Key Features
Cluster floral design, Aurora Borealis (rainbow effect) coating on stones, scalloped metal settings
Color & Finish
Medium yellow gold tone with significant patina/tarnishing; matte to satin appearance due to surface wear
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps on front; typical of mid-century costume jewelry which may be unsigned or stamped on a rear cartouche not visible here
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 20mm x 20mm (standard petite pendant size)
Gemstones & Inlays
Aurora Borealis (AB) coated glass rhinestones and smaller clear crystals; chaton-cut with foil backing
Clasp & Closure
Simple integrated jump ring loop at the top for chain attachment
Chain & Links
N/A - Pendant only; top loop shows signs of friction wear
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced cast base metal with glued or prong-set glass stones; assembly quality is standard for commercial costume jewelry of the era
Authentication Indicators
Visual 'pitting' on the metal and verdigris-style tarnish indicate base metal rather than solid gold; absence of fineness marks is a primary indicator of costume jewelry
Origin & Maker
Likely USA or Western Europe; mass-produced costume jewelry (similar to Trifari or Sarah Coventry styles)
Era & Period
Mid-Century / Retro (circa 1950s-1960s)
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1965 based on the popularity of Aurora Borealis coating and floral cluster design
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in the mid-20th century, allowing middle-class women to wear sparkling, gold-toned accessories for everyday fashion.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; significant wear to the gold plating exposing base metal (brassing), surface dirt present, foil backing on some stones shows signs of degradation/darkening
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00 USD (Decorative/Collectible value only; no precious metal bullion value)
Care & Maintenance
Avoid moisture and chemicals to prevent further oxidation of the base metal; clean with a dry soft cloth only; do not submerge in jewelry cleaner as it may strip the AB coating
Similar Items
Coro flower pins, vintage Weiss pendants, or contemporary 14K gold cluster pendants with natural opals
Interesting Facts
The Aurora Borealis coating was developed by Swarovski in 1955 in collaboration with Christian Dior to mimic the Northern Lights.