Gold-Plated Novelty Cat Figural Brooch
Brooch/Pin · Yellow Gold (plated over base metal alloy such as brass or pewter)
Purity: Gold Plated / Costume Jewelry (Base metal with gold electroplate)
Type
Brooch/Pin
Purity
Gold Plated / Costume Jewelry (Base metal with gold electroplate)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (plated over base metal alloy such as brass or pewter)
Weight
Estimated lightweight costume piece, approximately 8 to 15 grams
Description
A charming and whimsical figural brooch depicting playful cats rendered in a bright gold-plated finish. The piece features dimensional modeling with detailed textural elements and small sparkling rhinestones serving as the cats' expressive eyes. This delightful fashion accessory is a wonderful statement piece for feline lovers and collectors of vintage costume jewelry.
Key Features
Whimsical cat figural design, dimensional casting, textured gold-tone surface, and sparkling rhinestone inset eyes
Color & Finish
High-polish bright yellow gold finish with sparkling crystal rhinestone eyes
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in image, likely features a maker's mark or copyright symbol on the reverse side
Dimensions Estimate
Approximate dimensions: 1.5 to 2 inches in length/height, standard medium-sized novelty brooch
Gemstones & Inlays
Small round chaton-cut clear rhinestone crystals set into the cat's eyes, likely foiled glass or synthetic crystal
Clasp & Closure
Standard pin stem with safety roll-over clasp or safety catch typical of vintage costume brooches
Chain & Links
N/A - Solid figural pin construction
Craftsmanship Details
Cast base metal construction with polished gold electroplating, prong or adhesive-set rhinestone crystals, and securely soldered pin-back mechanism
Authentication Indicators
Bright yellow uniform gold-tone plating typical of fashion jewelry; standard pin-back hardware; clear crystal accents without precious metal hallmarks
Origin & Maker
Unidentified manufacturer, typical of fashion costume jewelry produced in the US, Europe, or East Asia
Era & Period
Late 20th Century / Retro Costume Jewelry (likely 1980s-1990s styling)
Age Estimate
Circa 1970s to 1990s production based on style, construction, and rhinestone usage
Cultural Significance
Represents the accessible and fun side of fashion jewelry in the late 20th century, allowing wearers to express personality, hobbies, and love for pets through wearable art without the high cost of fine precious metals
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition with minor surface wear typical of age; plating appears intact with good luster and no missing stones visible
Value Estimate
Secondary market or collector value ranges from $15 to $45 USD depending on maker, condition, and novelty appeal; negligible precious metal melt value as it is costume jewelry
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a dry or slightly damp soft microfiber cloth. Avoid harsh chemical dips, ultrasonic cleaners, and abrasive polishing agents to protect the delicate gold plating and glued rhinestones. Store in a dry, padded compartment
Similar Items
Other figural animal brooches by costume jewelry makers such as Monet, Trifari, or Lisner, featuring gold-plated bases and crystal accents
Interesting Facts
Figural animal brooches, particularly cats and dogs, gained massive popularity during the mid-to-late 20th century, often collected as fun fashion statements or sentimental keepsakes by animal enthusiasts