14K White Gold Vintage Art Deco Style Brooch with Onyx and Accent Stones
Brooch/Pin · White Gold, likely alloyed with nickel, palladium, or silver and finished with a rhodium plating for a bright silvery-white appearance
Purity: 14K (585 fineness, indicating 58.3% pure gold content)
Type
Brooch/Pin
Purity
14K (585 fineness, indicating 58.3% pure gold content)
Gold Type
White Gold, likely alloyed with nickel, palladium, or silver and finished with a rhodium plating for a bright silvery-white appearance
Weight
Estimated at 8.5 to 12.0 grams based on visible dimensions and solid metal structure
Description
An exquisite multi-part brooch showcasing strong geometric influences with alternating rectangular bezel-set black stones, intricately detailed filigree borders, and an elevated curved arch topped with floral clusters set with pale purple and sparkling accent stones. The piece delivers a dramatic high-contrast visual statement typical of high-end vintage costume or semi-fine jewelry design.
Key Features
Contrasting black rectangular center stones, dimensional tiered construction, integrated floral arch element, and detailed vintage filigree work along the metal borders
Color & Finish
Cool bright silver-white with a high-polish mirror finish and contrasting dark black and light purple accents
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected standard 14K or 585 purity stamp located on the reverse pin stem or housing, though obscured in the current visual angle
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 45mm in length by 20mm in height for the main rectangular section, with a standard medium-sized brooch profile
Gemstones & Inlays
Features rectangular black stones, likely onyx or black glass, alongside small pavé-set clear stones and light purple or pink accent stones in floral clusters
Clasp & Closure
Traditional pin stem with a safety roll-over clasp mechanism, ensuring secure fastening to garments
Chain & Links
N/A for brooch items; features a hinged structural layout connecting multiple decorative geometric and floral modules
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-cast components assembled with hand-finished stone settings, detailed milgrain borders, and secure hinge-and-pin integration
Authentication Indicators
Uniform color distribution, crisp casting details on the filigree frames, secure prong and bezel settings, and weight-to-size proportion consistent with solid 14K white gold construction
Origin & Maker
Unknown independent workshop, likely manufactured in North America or Europe during the mid-20th century
Era & Period
Art Deco revival or mid-20th-century retro design, drawing heavy inspiration from 1920s geometric symmetry and high-contrast stone settings
Age Estimate
Circa mid-to-late 20th century (1950s-1980s)
Cultural Significance
Art Deco style geometry represents an era of industrial optimism, luxury, and modernism that continues to heavily influence contemporary jewelry design
Condition Notes
Very good vintage condition with minor surface wear consistent with age; stone settings appear secure, and the metal shows a well-preserved polished white finish
Value Estimate
Valued primarily for its precious metal melt value combined with moderate vintage designer or artistic premium, ranging from $350 to $750 depending on gemstone verification
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush; avoid harsh ultrasonic cleaners due to the inclusion of potentially sensitive glued or softer colored stones; store flat in a lined jewelry box
Similar Items
Victorian mourning brooches with jet or onyx, 1920s authentic Art Deco diamond and onyx brooches, and mid-century retro cocktail pins
Interesting Facts
Brooches experienced a massive revival in mid-century fashion as versatile accessories worn on lapels, hats, and evening gowns, often serving as a canvas for dramatic gemstone contrasts