Vintage Figural Silhouette Gold-Plated Brooch Pin
Brooch/Pin · Yellow Gold; bright, high-saturation yellow hue suggests a gold-plated finish typical of decorative costume jewelry or high-end designer pieces.
Purity: Gold-Plated / Vermeil appearance; likely a base metal alloy with a thin coating of 14K-24K gold. It lacks a standard solid gold purity stamp (like 585 or 750).
Type
Brooch/Pin
Purity
Gold-Plated / Vermeil appearance; likely a base metal alloy with a thin coating of 14K-24K gold. It lacks a standard solid gold purity stamp (like 585 or 750).
Gold Type
Yellow Gold; bright, high-saturation yellow hue suggests a gold-plated finish typical of decorative costume jewelry or high-end designer pieces.
Weight
Estimated 8-12 grams. The item appears to be made from a flat sheet with a non-solid, light structural density consistent with costume jewelry.
Description
A stylish vintage figural brooch featuring a cut-out silhouette design. This piece captures a whimsical or artistic figure, possibly a seated fairy or stylized performer, within a triangular frame. The piece features a rich yellow gold tone and a distinctive textured reverse, making it a classic example of statement costume jewelry from the late 20th century.
Key Features
Hand-etched cursive script on reverse, unique abstract silhouette design, and substantial safety clasp hardware.
Color & Finish
High-polished yellow gold finish on the pins and hardware with a textured, slightly uneven 'hammered' or cast finish on the flat back surface. Signs of moderate surface tarnish and oxidation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Indistinct cursive signature on the left-wing edge (possibly 'Paris' or a maker's name). No numerical gold purity hallmarks (e.g., 14K) are visible in the provided image.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 35mm x 35mm (standard brooch size); oversized aesthetic suited for lapels or scarves.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible. The design relies on the silhouette and metal texture for visual interest.
Clasp & Closure
Standard safety pin/c-clasp mechanism with a rotating security lock. The pin stem appears slightly bent, indicating past use.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The structural back is a flat, stamped or cast plate without chain components.
Craftsmanship Details
Likely mass-produced via casting or heavy stamping. The hardware is soldered to the main body with visible solder points, typical of boutique manufacturing.
Authentication Indicators
The lack of numerical stamps and the surface-level oxidation (turning dark/greenish in crevices) strongly indicates this is gold-plated rather than solid gold.
Origin & Maker
Likely European, possibly French, based on the 'Paris' style script on the reverse. The maker is an unidentified fashion house or boutique jeweler.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (1980s-1990s). The figural silhouette and oversized pin hardware are characteristic of the bold 'Power Dressing' era or 90s revival styles.
Age Estimate
Circa 1985-1995. The manufacturing style and hardware oxidation levels are consistent with a 30-40 year vintage.
Cultural Significance
Represented the shift toward 'art jewelry' in fashion, where the design and artistic form were valued over the intrinsic metal weight.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible surface scratches, minor plating wear on high-friction areas, and a slightly warped pin stem. Tarnish is present on the reverse texture.
Value Estimate
$25 - $65 USD. Value is based on vintage aesthetic and collectible appeal rather than precious metal melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners. Clean gently with a soft microfiber cloth. Do not use chemical jewelry dips as they will strip the thin gold plating.
Similar Items
Monet or Trifari vintage gold-tone brooches; modern laser-cut brass designer pins.
Interesting Facts
Silhouette jewelry became popular in the 18th century as 'shadow portraiture' and saw a major modernist revival in the mid-century fashion world.