Personalized 12K Gold-Filled Wire-Wrap Name Brooch
Brooch/Pin (Name Script) · Yellow Gold (Pale/Standard). Likely a result of the copper/silver alloy used in the gold layer of the filling process.
Purity: Likely 12K Gold-Filled (1/20 12K GF). This indicates a mechanical bonding of a layer of 12K gold (50% purity) over a base metal core, compromising 5% of the total item weight.
Type
Brooch/Pin (Name Script)
Purity
Likely 12K Gold-Filled (1/20 12K GF). This indicates a mechanical bonding of a layer of 12K gold (50% purity) over a base metal core, compromising 5% of the total item weight.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Pale/Standard). Likely a result of the copper/silver alloy used in the gold layer of the filling process.
Weight
1.5 to 2.5 grams. The item is constructed from thin gauge wire, making it very lightweight despite its visual size.
Description
A charming, personalized wire-wrapped brooch spelling out the name 'AlReem'. Hand-forged from a single strand of gold-filled wire, the script features decorative loops and a dangling blue crystal accent. This piece reflects a tradition of personalized commemorative jewelry often found at artisan markets.
Key Features
Single-strand construction; hand-turned cursive script; integrated pin-back mechanism; dangling blue chaton-cut accent.
Color & Finish
Pale yellow gold color with a high-polish finish on the wire surface. Visible tarnish and oxidation near the wire loops suggest a base metal core reacting to the environment.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None clearly visible in the image. These items are often stamped '1/20 12K GF' on the pin stem or the final loop of the script, though many custom pieces remained unmarked.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 35mm to 45mm in length and 12mm in height; petite to standard scale for a lapel pin.
Gemstones & Inlays
Single light-blue round rhinestone (simulated crystal or glass), likely 3mm-4mm, held in a basic dangle setting attached to the lowercase 'm'.
Clasp & Closure
Integrated C-clasp or basic safety catch. The pinstem is formed from the same continuous piece of wire as the name script, characteristic of hand-bent wire jewelry.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; however, the 'script' is composed of a single continuous strand of round-gauge wire bent into cursive lettering.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-manipulated wire work using round-nose pliers. The symmetry of the 'e' loops and the security of the wrap on the blue stone indicate a practiced hand, though it lacks the refinement of fine jewelry soldering.
Authentication Indicators
The color consistency and 'bright' luster are typical of gold-fill rather than solid gold. The mechanical bending technique is a diagnostic trait of wire-work artisans rather than high-end cast jewelry.
Origin & Maker
Likely a custom 'while-you-wait' artisan piece from a fair, boardwalk, or street market. Such items typically do not have a brand name but represent a specific folk-art style of jewelry making.
Era & Period
Modern/Contemporary (Retro-Style). While wire-wrapped name pins were popular in the 1940s-1950s, this specific font and stone setting suggest a 1990s-2000s souvenir or custom craft production.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010 based on the wire gauge and the style of the rhinestone dangle.
Cultural Significance
Represents the Middle Eastern or Arabic popularity of English-script name jewelry as a personalized accessory for scarves or lapels.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible distortion/bending of the pin stem. Surface oxidation and darkening where the wire crosses over itself (typical of gold-filled materials). Rhinestone appears intact but setting shows slight wear.
Value Estimate
Intrinsically low due to gold-filled nature (melt value <$5.00). Secondary market or sentimental value is approximately $15 - $30 as a custom curiosity.
Care & Maintenance
Gently wipe with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners as they may loosen the rhinestone or accelerate the breakdown of the gold-fill layer. Do not bend the script as the wire may work-harden and snap.
Similar Items
Solid 14K Gold Laser-Cut Name Pins (more uniform and flat); Sterling Silver Wire-Wrapped Pins; 24K Gold Plated Brass souvenirs.
Interesting Facts
Wire-wrapped name jewelry became extremely popular during WWII as 'sweetheart jewelry' sent home by soldiers. The tradition of making these 'while-you-wait' started at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair.