Vintage Crystal and Enamel Parrot Figural Brooch
Jewelry (Brooch) · Unattributed Costume Jewelry Maker, likely mid to late 20th century mass-market or boutique production, possibly Austrian or North American design influence.
Pattern: Exotic Avian / Tropical Parrot Series, standard costume jewelry motif popular across various mid-century and modern fashion houses.
Type
Jewelry (Brooch)
Maker
Unattributed Costume Jewelry Maker, likely mid to late 20th century mass-market or boutique production, possibly Austrian or North American design influence.
Material
Base metal alloy (likely pot metal or brass) with a yellow gold or rose gold tone plated finish, inlaid with multi-colored glass rhinestones/crystals, colored enamel accents, and a large central faceted synthetic glass gemstone.
Dimensions
Estimated at approximately 2 inches (5 cm) in length and 1 inch (2.5 cm) in width, consistent with a medium-sized statement brooch. Weight is light, typical of costume pieces containing base metals and glass.
Description
A vibrant and eye-catching figural brooch in the shape of an exotic parrot, meticulously detailed with a brilliant array of multi-colored pavé crystals. The bird's crest and back shimmer in fiery orange and bright yellow, transitioning into fresh lime and deep green along the wing feathers. The head is accented with smooth black enamel, framing a gleaming metallic beak, while a prominent, luminous olive-yellow teardrop-shaped crystal rests centrally, adding remarkable depth and sparkle to the piece.
Key Features
Vibrant multi-colored crystal pavé work, contrasting black enamel head detailing, and a prominent large central faceted crystal serving as a focal point.
Material & Composition
Base metal alloy (likely pot metal or brass) with a yellow gold or rose gold tone plated finish, inlaid with multi-colored glass rhinestones/crystals, colored enamel accents, and a large central faceted synthetic glass gemstone.
Finish & Decoration
Polished metal framework combined with pavé-set orange, yellow, and green crystals. The head features black and white enamel work, creating a striking contrast against the metallic beak and eye surround. Features a large, teardrop-shaped faceted olive-yellow crystal held centrally as the bird's body or accompanying element.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks or stamps are apparent in the image, which is common for unsigned vintage costume jewelry or contemporary fashion pieces.
Construction Details
Cast base metal frame with stones hand- or machine-set into adhesive beds or prongs. Enamel applied via kiln-firing or cold-enamel techniques. Standard pin-stem and safety catch assembly soldered to the reverse.
Functional Features
Standard brooch pin mechanism with a hinged pin-stem and safety clasp for secure attachment to garments, hats, or scarves.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable as this is a figural brooch pin without handles or grips.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial-grade costume jewelry craftsmanship with clean stone alignment, secure prong or glue settings, and neat enamel application.
Authentication Indicators
Typical construction of modern costume fashion jewelry without precious metal hallmarks or maker's signatures. Authenticated purely on visual and stylistic attributes rather than precious metal standards.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Asia, Europe, or the United States utilizing mass-production techniques standard for fashion costume jewelry.
Era & Period
Retro / Mid-Century Modern or Contemporary Fashion Jewelry style, drawing heavy inspiration from the bold, colorful costume jewelry aesthetics of the 1950s through 1980s.
Age Estimate
Estimated late 20th century to early 21st century, c. 1970-2000, based on the style of stone-setting and vibrant color palette.
Cultural Significance
Represents the playful, expressive nature of costume jewelry, which allows wearers to make bold fashion statements using vibrant colors and whimsical animal motifs without the prohibitive cost of precious gemstones.
Condition Notes
Appears to be in very good to excellent vintage or pre-owned condition with all stones intact, bright metal plating, and no visible missing enamel.
Value Estimate
Estimated modest market value range of $20 to $60 USD, depending on the retail venue and specific brand attribution if any exists upon closer physical inspection.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid exposure to water, harsh chemical cleaners, perfumes, and hairsprays which can damage the foil-backed rhinestones, loosen stones, or tarnish the plated base metal. Clean gently with a dry, soft microfiber cloth.
Similar Pieces
Similar figural parrot brooches by makers such as Trifari, Monet, or Austrian crystal houses, though those typically feature maker marks and distinct enamel variations.
Interesting Facts
Parrots and exotic birds have been a recurring and highly collectible motif in high-end and costume jewelry since the Art Deco era, famously utilized by houses like Cartier and Trifari to symbolize exotic travel and luxury.