Modernist Crescent Moon Vermeil Sterling Silver Lapel Pin
Jewelry (Lapel Pin / Tie Tack) · Unidentified Studio Jeweler or Designer Brand; the piece exhibits characteristics of high-end boutique modernist jewelry common in the late 20th century.
Pattern: Geometric Modernist Crescent; minimalist contemporary collection.
Type
Jewelry (Lapel Pin / Tie Tack)
Maker
Unidentified Studio Jeweler or Designer Brand; the piece exhibits characteristics of high-end boutique modernist jewelry common in the late 20th century.
Material
Vermeil (Sterling Silver core with heavy gold electroplate). The base is solid sterling silver, indicated by the hallmark style and general construction.
Dimensions
Approximately 1.5 cm in width; estimated weight 1.5-2.0 grams (excluding clutch). Small scale intended for lapel or tie placement.
Description
A sleek, minimalist crescent moon pin crafted from sterling silver with a thick gold vermeil overlay. The item features a high-quality satin-brushed finish that diffuses light softly, a hallmark of modernist jewelry design. Its understated geometric form makes it a versatile accessory for professional or casual attire.
Key Features
Crescent 'D' shape; satin-finish gold surface; central hallmark boss; standard tack post attachment for versatile wear.
Material & Composition
Vermeil (Sterling Silver core with heavy gold electroplate). The base is solid sterling silver, indicated by the hallmark style and general construction.
Finish & Decoration
Satin-brushed gold finish; matte texture on the primary crescent surface with polished edges. Minimalist, non-representational aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A circular '925' or 'Sterling' stamp is visible on the reverse within a raised circular boss. Possible maker's monogram is partially obscured by the clutch post.
Construction Details
Cast crescent form with a soldered non-threaded tack post. The finish is applied post-casting through chemical gold plating.
Functional Features
Sharpened metal post for piercing fabric; friction-fit butterfly or cylindrical clutch (not shown but implied) for secure attachment.
Handle & Grip Details
Friction-grip tack post made of base metal or silver-plated brass for durability against repeated piercing.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality casting with no visible pits; well-centered post and clear hallmarks indicate professional manufacturing standards.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic '925' stamp in a circular recess; appropriate weight-to-size ratio for solid silver; consistent gold color indicating professional electroplating.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely North American or European (Italy/Scandinavia) studio production. Machine-assisted casting with hand-finishing.
Era & Period
Contemporary / Late Modernist (circa 1980-present). The clean lines and satin vermeil finish are typical of late 20th-century jewelry design.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010. Based on the hallmark placement and the specific 'vibrant yellow' tone of the vermeil gold plating.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the shift toward minimalist, non-ostentatious luxury in the late 20th century, where the value lies in design and material purity rather than ornate detail.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. The vermeil plating shows no signs of 'wearing through' to the silver base. The tack post appears straight and the surface is free of deep scratches.
Value Estimate
$35 - $75 USD. Value is driven by the silver content and the design aesthetic rather than a rare maker's mark.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft, non-abrasive polishing cloth. Avoid liquid silver dips which will strip the gold plating. Store in a soft pouch to prevent scratches to the satin finish.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Bean or Crescent lines; Georg Jensen minimalist series; contemporary Zales or Pandora gold-over-silver collections.
Interesting Facts
Vermeil is a traditional jewelry technique that requires a sterling silver base and a specific thickness of gold (usually 2.5 microns) to be legally called 'vermeil' in some regions.