Mid-Century Modern Georg Jensen Sterling Silver 'Eclipse' Brooch, Design No. 318
Jewelry - Brooch · Georg Jensen Silversmithy (Denmark). Founded in 1904, Jensen is considered the premier name in 20th-century silver, known for bridging the gap between Arts & Crafts and organic Modernism.
Pattern: Design No. 318, attributed to Nanna Ditzel or the Jensen design studio, introduced circa 1950s.
Type
Jewelry - Brooch
Maker
Georg Jensen Silversmithy (Denmark). Founded in 1904, Jensen is considered the premier name in 20th-century silver, known for bridging the gap between Arts & Crafts and organic Modernism.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid composition without weighted elements or interior base metals.
Dimensions
Approximately 4.0 cm to 4.5 cm in diameter; weighs roughly 15-20 grams. This is considered a medium-sized statement brooch.
Description
A stunning example of Danish silver engineering, this 'Eclipse' brooch features a deep concave disc that creates a dramatic interplay of light. Its simplicity is its strength, embodying the 'less is more' philosophy of Scandinavian design. It presents as a liquid pool of silver when worn, reflecting its surroundings in a distorted, artistic manner.
Key Features
Parabolic concave shape, exceptional mirror polish, signature Jensen hallmarkings, and a minimalist aesthetic that remains contemporary despite being decades old.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid composition without weighted elements or interior base metals.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished high-shine finish. The decoration is strictly formalist and sculptural, relying on the 'Eclipse' concave form to create light and shadow play. Stylistically belongs to Scandinavian Modernism.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically includes '925 S', 'DENMARK', the 'GEORG JENSEN' dotted oval logo, and the design number '318'. Marks are usually located on the reverse side near the pin mechanism.
Construction Details
Die-struck and hand-finished. The concave surface is precision-formed to achieve a perfect parabolic curve that reflects light evenly.
Functional Features
Includes a stainless steel or silver pin stem on the reverse with a safety rolling C-clasp to secure the piece to a garment.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a wearable jewelry item; the 'grip' refers to the secure safety clasp on the rear.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent edge-finishing; the transition from the polished face to the rim is seamless. The hand-polishing required to achieve this level of reflection without 'rippling' the metal is a hallmark of Jensen quality.
Authentication Indicators
The curvature profile and the crispness of the rim are consistent with Jensen production. The weight-to-size ratio is typical for .925 sterling in this specific design.
Origin & Manufacturing
Copenhagen, Denmark. Manufactured in the main Georg Jensen workshop adhering to strict Danish silver standards.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1945-1970). Indicated by the rejection of ornament in favor of geometric purity and organic curves typical of Danish design.
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1975. Design 318 flourished during the peak of Jensen's modernist era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of high design in the post-war era, where Scandinavian functionalism became a global symbol of sophistication and intellect.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The surface shows minor 'patina' scratches typical of high-polish silver. No deep gouges or evidence of pin-back repair. Tarnish is minimal in the provided image.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD. Value is driven by the presence of original hallmarks and the lack of deep surface scratches on the reflective face.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth and mild soapy water. For polishing, use a high-quality silver cream like Wright's. Avoid 'dips' as they can be too aggressive on the mirror finish.
Similar Pieces
Georg Jensen Design 325 (convex version), Hans Hansen 'Peak' brooches, or David-Andersen enamel discs. Jensen 318 is distinguished by its deep interior curve.
Interesting Facts
Concave mirrors like this design were inspired by the work of Nanna Ditzel, who sought to make silver look like moving water. This specific design was often marketed as a 'Space Age' accessory in the late 1950s.