D'Zocal Paris Snowflake Costume Brooch
Brooch/Pin · None; the item possesses a silver/white metallic finish rather than gold. The surface shows oxidation and plating wear consistent with base metal alloys.
Purity: Non-gold/Costume; likely silver-tone plating over base metal or pewter. No gold karat markings are present.
Type
Brooch/Pin
Purity
Non-gold/Costume; likely silver-tone plating over base metal or pewter. No gold karat markings are present.
Gold Type
None; the item possesses a silver/white metallic finish rather than gold. The surface shows oxidation and plating wear consistent with base metal alloys.
Weight
8 - 12 grams; the casting appears thick and solid for its size.
Description
A winter-themed costume brooch featuring a dual-layer design with a stylized snowflake base and a curved geometric canopy. The piece is finished in a gunmetal/silver-tone and bears the marking of the French fashion brand Dzocal.
Key Features
Layered snowflake architecture and prominent 'dzocal PARIS' hallmark on the reverse.
Color & Finish
Dull silver-gray with a matte, aged patina. The surface shows significant pitting and oxidation typical of pot metal or pewter.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'dzocal PARIS' in a stylized lowercase script on the upper right reverse flange.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 35mm x 30mm; standard fashion accessory size.
Gemstones & Inlays
One circular foil-backed crystal or rhinestone visible from the reverse in a central rivet setting; likely glass.
Clasp & Closure
Safety-pin style C-clasp with a simple tension-fit pin stem, common in mid-tier costume jewelry.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; however, the pin stem is integrated via a heavy soldered or cast hinge base.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast base metal construction with high-relief details; rough finishing on the reverse indicates budget-conscious production.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic D'zocal brand marking; the lack of purity stamps (like 925 or 18K) confirms this is costume jewelry, not fine jewelry.
Origin & Maker
France; attributed to 'dzocal Paris', a brand associated with European fashion boutique accessories.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern Fashion; late 20th century to early 2000s based on the logo style and casting technique.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990 - 2010; the manufacturing style suggests mass-market boutique production.
Cultural Significance
Represents seasonal winter fashion trends and the accessibility of 'Parisian' style through mass-produced accessory lines.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; significant surface oxidation and loss of original plating luster. The pin stem is slightly bent.
Value Estimate
$10 - $25; value is strictly decorative/fashion-based with no precious metal melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a dry, soft cloth only. Avoid water or chemical silver cleaners which may strip the remaining thin plating.
Similar Items
Monet or Trifari silver-tone snowflake pins, which often used higher-quality rhodium plating.
Interesting Facts
D'zocal is known for producing jewelry that mimics high-fashion artistic styles at an accessible price point.