Gold-Tone Vintage Style Costume Cameo Brooch with Jasper-Tone Resin and Rhinestone Accents
Brooch / Pin (Costume Jewelry) · Yellow Gold plating over base metal (likely brass, bronze, or alloy). Characteristics suggest a decorative electroplated finish.
Purity: None (Gold-plated or gold-tone base metal). Not solid gold. Does not contain significant karat gold content.
Type
Brooch / Pin (Costume Jewelry)
Purity
None (Gold-plated or gold-tone base metal). Not solid gold. Does not contain significant karat gold content.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating over base metal (likely brass, bronze, or alloy). Characteristics suggest a decorative electroplated finish.
Weight
15 grams to 25 grams. The weight is primarily composed of base metal and resin, not precious metal.
Description
An ornate vintage-inspired gold-tone brooch featuring a central resin cameo of a woman in profile. The piece is accented by a floral and leaf filigree motif set with multicolored rhinestones. A faceted red glass drop dangles from the base, adding movement. The piece utilizes antiqued plating to mimic the look of heirlooms while using accessible modern materials.
Key Features
Rope-twist border, multi-tonal rhinestone accents (pink and red), resin cameo centerpiece, and a distinctive dangling faceted pendant.
Color & Finish
Antique yellow gold finish with a dark patina (oxidized effect) in the recessed areas to simulate aged vintage jewelry. Surface is textured with a rope-twist border and floral filigree.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks for gold purity. May contain a 'Made in China' or generic manufacturer's mark on the reverse pin assembly (not shown).
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 50mm in length (including dangle) and 30mm in width. Standard oversized statement brooch size.
Gemstones & Inlays
Molded resin or plastic cameo inlay depicting a Victorian-style lady; faceted red glass or synthetic rhinestones in the center and dangle; small pink/lavender costume pavé stones in the leaf accents.
Clasp & Closure
Standard safety pin or 'C' clasp mechanism likely located on the reverse. Quality is indicative of mid-range costume jewelry.
Chain & Links
Single jump ring connecting the lower red stone drop; reeded/rope style border around the central oval cameo.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast base metal construction with mechanically applied plating. Stones are glued into pre-cast divots rather than hand-set. The cameo is a mold-injected resin piece with consistent mass-market detail.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for real gold include the uneven 'antique' patina, the use of molded resin instead of carved shell/stone, and the lack of high-quality gemstone settings (stones appear glued rather than prong-set).
Origin & Maker
Likely mass-produced in East Asia (China or Korea). Unbranded or generic fashion brand accessory.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Modern production). While the design is inspired by Victorian and Edwardian aesthetics, the materials and assembly are modern 'Vintage-Style' costume jewelry.
Age Estimate
Produced within the last 10-20 years (circa 2000s-2020s).
Cultural Significance
Cameos have historically served as symbols of status and sentimentality, often depicting deities or loved ones to be worn as personal talismans.
Condition Notes
Good condition. Minor surface wear on the gold plating consistent with light use. Resin cameo appears intact without significant yellowing or cracking.
Value Estimate
$10 - $25 USD. Value is entirely decorative and based on visual appeal as costume jewelry rather than metal or gemstone melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid chemicals, perfumes, and ultrasonic cleaners which can dissolve glues or strip the plating. Wipe with a dry microfiber cloth and store separately to prevent scratching the resin.
Similar Items
Authentic 19th-century shell cameos in solid gold; Wedgewood jasperware brooches; 1950s Sarah Coventry costume jewelry sets.
Interesting Facts
Authentic cameos from the 19th century were typically hand-carved from conch shells or sardonyx and set in 14K or 18K gold. Modern resin versions like this allow the style to be accessible for daily fashion.