Vintage 18K Yellow Gold and Rock Crystal Scottish Terrier Dog Brooch
Brooch/Pin (Figural Animal Jewelry) · Yellow Gold; deep warm honey tone indicating a significant gold-to-alloy ratio.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness); contains 75% pure gold alloyed with silver and copper. Assessment is based on the rich yellow saturation typical of high-karat luxury jewelry of the mid-20th century.
Type
Brooch/Pin (Figural Animal Jewelry)
Purity
18K (750 fineness); contains 75% pure gold alloyed with silver and copper. Assessment is based on the rich yellow saturation typical of high-karat luxury jewelry of the mid-20th century.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold; deep warm honey tone indicating a significant gold-to-alloy ratio.
Weight
12.0 - 15.0 grams total weight. The gold components appear cast and thick-walled, though the internal rock crystal makes a purely gold weight calculation difficult without a stone displacement test.
Description
An exquisite mid-century figural brooch depicting a Scottish Terrier or 'Scottie'. The piece features a unique 'invisible' body carved from translucent rock crystal, bookended by highly detailed 18K yellow gold castings. The gold is meticulously textured to represent the wiry coat of the breed, creating a playful yet luxurious contrast between the solid metal and the clear gemstone.
Key Features
The 'disappearing body' design utilizing a clear central stone; the heavy textured 'fur' goldwork; the breed-specific anatomical accuracy of the Scottish Terrier.
Color & Finish
Rich vintage yellow with a heavy 'bark' or 'nugget' textured finish on the gold sections to simulate fur. High-polish highlights on the paws and tail tip. No significant oxidation visible.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped '750' or '18K' on the reverse side of the tail or on the pin stem. Expected maker's mark would be an Italian lozenge or a French eagle's head if European in origin, or a designer name like Van Cleef & Arpels or Cartier for high-end versions.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 35mm in length and 25mm in height. A standard statement brooch size.
Gemstones & Inlays
The central body is a carved Rock Crystal (clear quartz) in a tapered rectangular or cylindrical form. Likely features small ruby or diamond melee for 'eyes' (though not clearly visible in blur).
Clasp & Closure
A traditional pin-and-safety-catch mechanism. Features a hinged pinstem that locks into a revolving safety C-clasp to prevent loss while worn.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The structural integrity is maintained by the center stone acting as the bridge between the gold front (head/front legs) and back (hindquarters/tail) assemblies.
Craftsmanship Details
Masterful multi-part construction; the gold components are likely hand-finished lost-wax castings. The fitting of the rock crystal requires high precision lapidary work to ensure the 'body' sits flush against the metal 'limbs' without visible gaps.
Authentication Indicators
Rich color characteristic of 18K; heavy weight suggests solid casting rather than electroform; precision of the stone-to-metal fitting; high-quality safety clasp mechanism typical of fine jewelry. Red flags to check: seam lines from poor casting (none visible) or adhesive residue at stone junctions.
Origin & Maker
Likely European, specifically Italian or French. Style is reminiscent of several 'Boutique' lines from major houses or specialized high-end ateliers in Vicenza or Paris.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Retro (circa 1950s-1960s). This style of using carved hardstones with textured 'hairy' gold was highly popular in the works of designers like Cartier and Boucheron during this era.
Age Estimate
Produced circa 1955-1970 based on the specific 'Bark' texture technique and the use of rock crystal for animal bodies.
Cultural Significance
Represents the Post-War 'Return to Elegance' where whimsical animal motifs were used to showcase master craftsmanship and high-value materials in a conversational way.
Condition Notes
Overall Good to Very Good. The gold texture appears crisp. The rock crystal shows no major chips or fractures. The pin stem appears straight. Surface scratches consistent with age on the gold surfaces. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
$1,800 - $3,500 USD. Value is heavily weighted on artistic merit and craftsmanship over melt value. Melt value estimated at ~$600, but a significant premium is applied for the vintage design and stone carving.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a very soft brush and mild soapy water; avoid ultrasonic cleaners as they can vibrate the rock crystal loose from the gold mountings or cause 'shivering' in quartz. Store in a separate silk pouch to prevent the gold from scratching the crystal.
Similar Items
Cartier 'Le Bestiaire' animal collection; David Webb carved animal brooches; Van Cleef & Arpels 'La Boutique' animal clips. Alternatives include smaller 14K versions with enamel instead of gemstone bodies.
Interesting Facts
During the 1950s, animal-themed jewelry became a status symbol among socialites. Carved stone dog brooches were famously collected by the Duchess of Windsor and Grace Kelly.