Vintage Mid-Century Gilt-Finish Wreath Brooch with Faux Garnets and Pink Rhinestones
Brooch/Pin (Wreath style) · Yellow gold finish (plated or gilt) over base metal alloy.
Purity: Likely Gold Phased or Costume (not solid gold). Based on the surface wear, brassing, and the presence of paste gemstones, this item is likely gold-plated or gold-washed over a base metal like brass or pot metal rather than being solid karat gold.
Type
Brooch/Pin (Wreath style)
Purity
Likely Gold Phased or Costume (not solid gold). Based on the surface wear, brassing, and the presence of paste gemstones, this item is likely gold-plated or gold-washed over a base metal like brass or pot metal rather than being solid karat gold.
Gold Type
Yellow gold finish (plated or gilt) over base metal alloy.
Weight
15.0 - 25.0 grams total weight including stones (item appears light/hollow-backed typical of costume jewelry).
Description
A striking Mid-Century circular wreath brooch featuring a bold contrast between deep burgundy faux garnets and bright pink rhinestone accents. The piece is finished in a warm yellow gold-tone gilt, typical of high-end costume jewelry of its era. Each stone is held by heavy architectural prongs that add a sense of drama and texture to the floral-inspired silhouette. This piece reflects the mid-20th-century trend of 'cocktail jewelry'—oversized, colorful accessories designed to be noticed in evening light.
Key Features
Large prominent prongs, tiered stone heights, 'wreath' or 'circle' silhouette, and a distinctive 'ruby and sapphire' color palette often associated with retro-glamour designs.
Color & Finish
Warm yellow gold matte finish with significant patina and surface oxidation. Some areas show a dull, darkened coloration consistent with aged plating.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps seen on the front. Likely found on the reverse side on a signature plaque or the pin stem if present; looking for marks like '12K GF', '18K HGE', or maker names like 'Coro', 'Trifari', or 'Monet'. If unmarked, it is categorized as unsigned costume jewelry.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 1.5 to 2.0 inches (38-50mm) in diameter. Standard accessory size.
Gemstones & Inlays
Five large round faceted glass 'faux garnet' center stones (approx. 10mm each) and twelve smaller pink rhinestone accents in shared prong settings. Two small accent settings appear empty/missing stones. Stones are glass/paste rather than natural minerals.
Clasp & Closure
Likely a standard C-clasp or safety rolling pin clasp on the reverse side. The pin stem is partially visible behind the wreath center.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; solid frame construction with individual prong-set stone cups soldered to a circular wreath base.
Craftsmanship Details
The frame is likely cast or stamped with components soldered together. The prongs are hand-closed over the stones, suggesting a level of assembly line hand-craft common in mid-century American costume jewelry manufacturing.
Authentication Indicators
The weight-to-size ratio and the presence of base-metal oxidation (dark spots) indicate this is not solid gold. The hand-setting of glass stones is consistent with mid-tier vintage costume brands.
Origin & Maker
Likely United States or Western Europe (West Germany or Austria were prolific producers of this stone-heavy style). Unidentified maker without reverse-side markings.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Retro (circa 1950s-1970s). The use of large prongs and vibrant rhinestone color combinations is highly characteristic of post-WWII costume jewelry trends.
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1965 based on the prong style and the specific shades of the glass rhinestones.
Cultural Significance
Broadly represents the democratization of luxury in the mid-20th century, where mass-produced materials like gold-plated brass and lead glass allowed middle-class women to participate in high-fashion trends previously reserved for the elite.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Visible surface wear and oxidation to the gold plating; at least two small pink rhinestones are missing from the perimeter. Large stones appear secure but have minor surface scratches consistent with glass.
Value Estimate
$20 - $45 USD. Value is based entirely on vintage aesthetic and collectible appeal rather than precious metal or gemstone content. Missing stones significantly decrease value for collectors.
Care & Maintenance
Do not submerge in water or use ultrasonic cleaners as it will dissolve the foil backing of the stones. Clean gently with a dry, soft cloth. Store in a dry environment to prevent further oxidation of the base metal.
Similar Items
Trifari 'Fruit Salad' brooches, Kramer of New York rhinestone pins, or contemporary Swarovski floral brooches. This item is more robust and 'chunky' than Victorian garnets which would be set in solid 9K or 10K gold.
Interesting Facts
During the 1940s and 50s, high-quality costume jewelry was often called 'fabulous fakes' because designers like Kenneth Jay Lane and Trifari created pieces that socialites wore alongside their real diamonds to prevent theft.