Contemporary Cast Angel Motif Silver-Tone Brooch
Jewelry (Brooch) · Indeterminate mass-market manufacturer, likely unbranded or white-label boutique decorative jewelry maker.
Pattern: Generic Holiday/Guardian Angel series; non-specific pattern.
Type
Jewelry (Brooch)
Maker
Indeterminate mass-market manufacturer, likely unbranded or white-label boutique decorative jewelry maker.
Material
Likely Silver-Plated Base Metal (typically zinc alloy or pewter) or Nickel Silver; no visible precious metal hallmarks (925 or Sterling) are present.
Dimensions
Approx. 2 inches (5cm) in height; estimated weight 15-20 grams. Fits the standard size for a lapel or sweater brooch.
Description
This is a decorative silver-toned brooch depicted in the form of a stylized angel with a halo and outspread wings. The reverse features a uniform stippled pattern intended to reduce weight and provide a tactile finish, common in contemporary costume jewelry. It represents a spiritual or holiday-themed accessory designed for casual wear.
Key Features
Stylized angel silhouette, stippled reverse texture, modern safety rolling clasp, lack of precious metal markings.
Material & Composition
Likely Silver-Plated Base Metal (typically zinc alloy or pewter) or Nickel Silver; no visible precious metal hallmarks (925 or Sterling) are present.
Finish & Decoration
Textured stippled finish on the reverse (orange-peel effect), common in casting to mask surface irregularities; silver-tone plating.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible. The absence of 'Ster', '.925', or a maker's mark suggests a non-precious fashion jewelry item.
Construction Details
Modern die-cast or spin-cast production; features a standard safety-pin style pinstem with a rolling C-clasp hinge soldered or cast into the back.
Functional Features
Functional rotating safety clasp and pin assembly for attachment to clothing.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a brooch; however, the pinstem is stainless steel or nickel-plated brass for strength.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-cast with minimal hand finishing; typical of high-volume commercial fashion jewelry.
Authentication Indicators
The orange-peel/stippled texture on the back is a classic indicator of modern centrifugal casting used in non-precious costume jewelry. The lack of standardized hallmarks indicates it is not sterling silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely East Asian (China or Taiwan) or US-based costume jewelry production (e.g., Providence, RI tradition).
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary (Late 20th Century to present), characterized by mass-production casting techniques.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990–2010 based on the style of the safety clasp and the pebbled reverse texture.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'giftware' movement in jewelry, where items are sold more for their symbolic or sentimental value than their intrinsic metal content.
Condition Notes
Good condition. Darkening in the recesses suggests light tarnish or oxidation of the plating; the pin mechanism appears functional. Grade: Very Good (Costume).
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00 USD (Secondary market/thrift/estate sale value for costume pieces).
Care & Maintenance
Do not use silver dips or harsh chemicals as they may strip the thin plating. Clean with a soft dry cloth; store away from moisture to prevent 'green' corrosion (verdigris).
Similar Pieces
Sterling silver versions by James Avery or Beau Sterling would have a smooth finished back and deep '925' or 'STER' stamps.
Interesting Facts
Angel brooches gained massive popularity in the 1990s as 'Guardian Angel' pins, often exchanged as gifts for protection or comfort.