Gold-Plated Textured Cat Figural Brooch with Red Rhinestone Eyes
Brooch/Pin · Yellow Gold Tone
Purity: Gold-Plated / Costume Jewelry, typically un-hallmarked base metal (such as brass or pot metal) with a thin gold electroplate layer containing no substantial precious metal content percentage.
Type
Brooch/Pin
Purity
Gold-Plated / Costume Jewelry, typically un-hallmarked base metal (such as brass or pot metal) with a thin gold electroplate layer containing no substantial precious metal content percentage.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold Tone
Weight
Estimated lightweight at approximately 8 to 12 grams, manufactured as a hollow or semi-hollow stamped component.
Description
An endearing and whimsical mid-century figural brooch depicting a stylized cat with a beautifully textured, rope-like body and an arched tail. The charming feline features alert pointed ears, protruding straight whiskers, and vibrant red rhinestone eyes that add a striking splash of color. Crafted from a gold-toned base metal with a heavily textured finish, this piece captures the playful aesthetic of 1950s and 1960s costume jewelry design.
Key Features
Playful figural cat design, highly textured rope-twist metal body, arched tail creating negative space, and contrasting bright red rhinestone eye accents.
Color & Finish
Rich warm yellow gold tone with a heavily textured, basket-weave or rope-twist surface finish and polished accents on the whiskers.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks or maker's stamps can be definitively identified from the visible angle, though maker signatures are typically located on the reverse pin stem plate for this style.
Dimensions Estimate
Estimated length of approximately 1.5 to 2 inches (38-50 mm) and a width of about 0.75 inches, fitting the standard medium scale for vintage costume figural brooches.
Gemstones & Inlays
Two small round red glass rhinestones or chatons serving as the cat eyes, bezel or flush-set securely into the head casting.
Clasp & Closure
Standard pin stem with a safety rolling catch or C-clasp mechanism typical of mid-century costume jewelry.
Chain & Links
Not applicable as this is a figural brooch, though the body design cleverly utilizes stylized twisted wire and textured rope motifs to simulate a furry feline silhouette.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast base metal construction featuring detailed mold work for the textured fur and facial features, complemented by hand-set rhinestone eyes and a securely affixed rear pin mechanism.
Authentication Indicators
Typical construction methods for mid-century costume pieces include textured base metal casting and soldered pin findings. The presence of base metal underneath minor plating wear indicates costume rather than fine solid gold jewelry.
Origin & Maker
Likely American or European costume jewelry manufacturer (such as Trifari, Monet, or JJ), though unverified without reverse markings.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Retro (circa 1950s-1960s), indicated by the whimsical figural animal motif, textured metalwork, and popular costume jewelry styling of the era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1970 production based on stylistic tropes of mid-century figural novelty jewelry.
Cultural Significance
Cats have symbolized mystery, independence, and companionship for millennia. In 20th-century fashion, novelty animal brooches became statement pieces expressing personality and a love for pets.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. The gold-tone plating appears largely intact with minor surface wear consistent with age and gentle handling. The rhinestone eyes are present and secure.
Value Estimate
Modest collector and secondary market value ranging from $20 to $60, driven entirely by aesthetic charm, vintage appeal, and brand collectibility rather than precious metal melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid all liquid immersion, ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemical dips, and perfumes to preserve the delicate gold-tone plating and secure the glued or set rhinestones.
Similar Items
Similar vintage figural animal brooches by makers like Trifari, Coro, or J.J. (Jonette Jewelry), differing primarily in maker marks, metal finishes, and stone colors.
Interesting Facts
Cat-themed figural jewelry experienced massive surges in popularity during the mid-20th century, championed by high-end costume designers who catered to feline lovers and eccentric collectors.