Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Crown Key Brooch
Jewelry (Brooch/Pin) · Tiffany & Co., founded in 1837 in New York City. The company is internationally renowned as a premier luxury house specializing in high-quality silver jewelry and luxury goods.
Pattern: Though likely part of a vintage novelty or key-themed collection, the key motif has been a recurring signature for Tiffany & Co. for decades, later popularized by the 'Tiffany Keys' collection.
Type
Jewelry (Brooch/Pin)
Maker
Tiffany & Co., founded in 1837 in New York City. The company is internationally renowned as a premier luxury house specializing in high-quality silver jewelry and luxury goods.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The metal is a solid silver alloy with 92.5% silver content and 7.5% copper for strength.
Dimensions
Estimated length approximately 5-6 cm (2-2.3 inches). Weight is estimated between 4 to 7 grams, classified as a lightweight decorative brooch.
Description
An elegant sterling silver brooch modeled after a vintage skeleton key. The piece features a sophisticated crown-shaped bow with delicate scroll cut-outs, leading to a sleek shaft and a classic bit. Typical of Tiffany's whimsical yet refined jewelry, it transforms a functional object into a piece of wearable art.
Key Features
Distinctive Tiffany & Co. branding on the reverse; crown-motived scroll bow; high-quality rolling safety clasp; slender, well-proportioned shaft.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The metal is a solid silver alloy with 92.5% silver content and 7.5% copper for strength.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with oxidized accents in recessed areas. The design features a decorative openwork 'crown' bow with scrollwork and a traditional bit at the end of the shaft.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'TIFFANY & CO.' and 'STERLING' on the reverse side of the crown bow. The block lettering is consistent with mid-to-late 20th-century Tiffany marking standards.
Construction Details
Cast components with hand-finished surfaces; the pin stem and safety catch are soldered to the reverse using standard jeweler’s solder.
Functional Features
Includes a hinged pin stem and a roll-over safety clasp (C-clasp with revolving safety) to secure the jewelry to garments.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable as this is a brooch, but the 'bow' (the top of the key) is designed with ornate open scrollwork typical of Victorian-revival aesthetics.
Craftsmanship Details
Displays excellent casting quality with no visible pitting; the edges of the openwork are clean and crisp, reflecting the high manufacturing standards of the brand.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark placement is centered and clear; font style matches known Tiffany examples from the late 20th century; the quality of the finish and the robust nature of the pin assembly are consistent with authentic production.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, most likely manufactured in Tiffany’s New York or Rhode Island facilities, following American silver manufacturing traditions.
Era & Period
Modern/Vintage; likely Mid-to-Late 20th Century (1960s-1980s). The design draws from Victorian 'Skeleton Key' motifs but uses modern safety findings.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1990 based on the style of the safety clasp and the font used in the 'Sterling' stamp.
Cultural Significance
Keys have long served as symbols of status, maturity (as in 'key to the door'), and secret knowledge. As a Tiffany piece, it represents the 20th-century trend of elevating everyday icons into luxury accessories.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. Shows moderate surface tarnish (sulfide deposits) particularly around the solder joints and within the scrollwork; light micro-scratches consistent with gentle wear.
Value Estimate
$150 - $275 USD depending on current market demand for vintage Tiffany silver and the presence of original packaging.
Care & Maintenance
Carefully clean with a soft cloth and a professional silver cream like Wright's. Avoid dip cleaners which can remove the intended oxidation in the recesses. Store in the provided Tiffany Blue flannel pouch to prevent scratching.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'Heart Key' pendants, vintage Gorham or Reed & Barton sterling novelty pins; the Tiffany version is distinguished by its specific bow scrollwork and premium hallmark.
Interesting Facts
The key motif is one of Tiffany & Co.'s most successful design themes, symbolizing 'unlocking possibilities' and independence; antique keys were often used as charms before being modernized by the house.