Novelty Bowling Ball and Pin Costume Brooch
Jewelry (Brooch/Pin) · Unidentified mass-market manufacturer; typical of mid-to-late 20th-century novelty jewelry producers such as Avon, Trifari (lower end), or unbranded boutique suppliers.
Pattern: Novelty Sports Motif; Bowling Theme
Type
Jewelry (Brooch/Pin)
Maker
Unidentified mass-market manufacturer; typical of mid-to-late 20th-century novelty jewelry producers such as Avon, Trifari (lower end), or unbranded boutique suppliers.
Material
Base metal (likely pewter or zinc alloy) with gold-tone plating; set with iridescent Aurora Borealis (AB) rhinestones.
Dimensions
Estimated 3.5cm x 2cm; weight approximately 8-12 grams.
Description
A whimsical piece of vintage costume jewelry, this brooch depicts a bowling ball mid-strike against a pin. The pin features a contrasting textured body and smooth neck, while the ball is encrusted with 'Aurora Borealis' rhinestones that catch the light with a rainbow effect. It is a classic example of 'hobbyist' jewelry popular in mid-century social clubs.
Key Features
Aurora Borealis rhinestone coating; textured vs. polished metal contrast; sports-themed novelty silhouette.
Material & Composition
Base metal (likely pewter or zinc alloy) with gold-tone plating; set with iridescent Aurora Borealis (AB) rhinestones.
Finish & Decoration
Textured 'florentine' or stippled finish on the bowling pin; polished gold-tone neck; pavé-set rhinestones on the ball. Features Aurora Borealis coating for a multi-colored shimmer.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible marks in image; likely 'China' or a generic maker's mark on the reverse pin assembly.
Construction Details
Cast base metal; stones are glued/pasted (not prong-set); standard safety catch pin back soldered or glued to the reverse.
Functional Features
Horizontal pin stem with a revolving safety clasp for attachment to garments.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; features a standard jewelry pin stem.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced cast piece; decorative textures are part of the mold rather than hand-wrought.
Authentication Indicators
The absence of a 'Sterling' or '.925' mark, combined with the rainbow-sheen rhinestones, confirms this is costume jewelry rather than fine silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA or East Asian mass-production centers (Rhode Island or Hong Kong/China).
Era & Period
Late Modern / Vintage Costume (c. 1960s-1980s). Bowling was a peak cultural hobby in the US during this era, driving demand for themed accessories.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1990 based on the use of AB rhinestones and the cast novelty design.
Cultural Significance
Represents the era of 'Leisure Class' Americana where bowling leagues were a primary social outlet for the middle class.
Condition Notes
Good condition. Gold plating appears intact. Stones are present but should be checked for glue degradation. No significant tarnish visible.
Value Estimate
$10 - $25 USD. Value is driven by novelty appeal rather than metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a dry, soft cloth only. Avoid jewelry dips or water, which can dissolve the glue holding the rhinestones or peel the gold-tone plating.
Similar Pieces
Sterling silver versions by silversmiths like Beau or Danecraft (which would be marked .925 and lack the gold plating).
Interesting Facts
The 'Aurora Borealis' rhinestone was developed by Swarovski in 1955 to mimic the Northern Lights, quickly becoming a staple in novelty brooches.