Mid-Century Modern Silver Plated Rose Brooch with Rhinestone Pistil
Jewelry (Brooch) · Unidentified mass-market costume jewelry manufacturer, likely American or European (e.g., trifari-style but unsigned). The quality suggests commercial costume production rather than a bespoke silversmith.
Pattern: Generic Floral Motif (Rose), a staple of mid-century costume jewelry collections typically produced between 1950 and 1970.
Type
Jewelry (Brooch)
Maker
Unidentified mass-market costume jewelry manufacturer, likely American or European (e.g., trifari-style but unsigned). The quality suggests commercial costume production rather than a bespoke silversmith.
Material
Silver plate over base metal (likely pot metal or brass) with clear glass paste/rhinestones. Evidence of copper-toned base metal visible at the wear points (pitting and peeling surfaces).
Dimensions
Diameter approximately 4.5 cm to 5 cm (1.75 to 2 inches). Weight is estimated at 15–20 grams given the thick cast metal construction.
Description
An expressive Mid-Century floral brooch fashioned as a blooming rose. The item features multiple layers of undulating petals that create a sense of depth and movement. In the heart of the flower, a cluster of sparkling clear rhinestones provides a focal point, mimicking the natural shimmer of dew or the flower's reproductive center. While designed to emulate high-end silver, its construction is firmly rooted in the accessible luxury of vintage costume jewelry.
Key Features
High-relief casting of rose petals, tiered organic structure, central rhinestone cluster, and a distinctive satin-to-polished silver-tone transition.
Material & Composition
Silver plate over base metal (likely pot metal or brass) with clear glass paste/rhinestones. Evidence of copper-toned base metal visible at the wear points (pitting and peeling surfaces).
Finish & Decoration
Bright satin silver finish with highlights; cast organic petal forms with a central cluster of faceted rhinestones set in a pavé or glue-in style. The finish shows signs of oxidative 'peeling' or plating loss.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the primary image. Likely unsigned or marked on the reverse pin assembly with a generic 'Silver Plate' or 'Made in USA/Germany' stamp.
Construction Details
Lost-wax or die-cast base metal construction. The petals are integrated into a single mold. Rhinestones are likely foil-backed glass stones set into a central recess.
Functional Features
Includes a standard safety pin or pinstem mechanism on the reverse (not visible but implied by the form) for attachment to fabric.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable for a brooch, though the pinstem assembly serves as the functional attachment point.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality cast work. The mold definition is decent, providing realistic petal textures, but the finishing quality (plating thickness) was standard for mid-range consumer goods of the era.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of bubbling and peeling on the metal surface is a definitive indicator of silver plating over a non-precious base metal. Authentic sterling silver would show uniform tarnish rather than surface layer separation.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in a commercial jewelry hub such as Providence, Rhode Island (USA) or Pforzheim (Germany) using industrial casting methods.
Era & Period
Mid-Century (Late 1950s to 1960s). This period saw a resurgence in heavy floral motifs, popularized by designers like Kenneth Jay Lane and Trifari.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960. The style of the rhinestone facets and the specific matte-satin plating finish are characteristic of this decade.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of fashion in the post-war era, where 'costume' jewelry allowed middle-class consumers to participate in the aesthetic of high-society precious metal jewelry.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is significant 'pitting' and loss of the silver plating on the edges of the petals, revealing the darker base metal beneath. Rhinestones appear largely intact but may have slight 'greying' or foil degradation common in vintage pieces.
Value Estimate
$15.00 - $35.00 USD. Value is limited by the loss of plating and the lack of a prominent designer signature.
Care & Maintenance
Do not submerge in liquid jewelry cleaner or use silver dips, as this will destroy the rhinestone foil and further lift the plating. Clean with a dry, soft cloth and keep away from moisture and hairspray.
Similar Pieces
Trifari 'Crown' Rose Brooches (often signed, higher quality hardware), Coro floral sprays, or Sarah Coventry flower brooches (often more uniform in plating).
Interesting Facts
The 'Rose' was one of the most popular motifs in 20th-century jewelry, often symbolizing love and beauty. In the 1950s/60s, these brooches were considered essential daytime accessories for women's suits and coats.