Vintage Filigree Lattice Heart Brooch Pin
Jewelry - Brooch/Pin · Unmarked Boutique Silversmith or Costume Manufacturer; similar to designs by Napier or Trifari.
Pattern: Raised Lattice Heart with Stippled Buds; non-cataloged ornamental design.
Type
Jewelry - Brooch/Pin
Maker
Unmarked Boutique Silversmith or Costume Manufacturer; similar to designs by Napier or Trifari.
Material
Likely Silver-Plated Base Metal or Sterling Silver (.925) cast. Lacks visible hallmark stamps on the front face.
Dimensions
Approximately 3.5cm x 3.5cm; estimated weight between 8 and 12 grams.
Description
An attractive, heart-shaped brooch featuring a complex openwork lattice design. The overlapping petal-like structures are accented with stippled 'bud' textures, creating a sense of depth and Victorian-era sentimentality. The bright silver finish provides a crisp contrast to the intentional oxidation in the recessed lattice voids.
Key Features
Repeating drop-shaped lattice motif, raised relief texture, and classic romantic heart silhouette.
Material & Composition
Likely Silver-Plated Base Metal or Sterling Silver (.925) cast. Lacks visible hallmark stamps on the front face.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish rhodium-style finish with oxidized recessed areas; features a raised openwork filigree lattice and beaded/stippled texture.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps on front. Rear likely contains a '925' or 'STERLING' mark if silver, or a maker's cartouche if costume jewelry.
Construction Details
Lost-wax cast construction with openwork piercings; integrated border frame and hollow-back design.
Functional Features
Horizontal pin-back mechanism with a safety c-clasp on the reverse.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable for this form.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial casting; clean lines but visible graininess in the recessed areas typical of high-volume manufacturing.
Authentication Indicators
Uniformity of the internal lattice suggests machine-aided mold creation; surface oxidation pattern is consistent with silver-plate or lower-grade sterling alloy.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA or Southeast Asia mass-market production; mold-cast in a high-volume factory setting.
Era & Period
Modern / Late 20th Century (c. 1970s-1990s) mimicking Victorian Romantic revival styles.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-1995 based on the casting texture and specific safety clasp style common in this period.
Cultural Significance
Represents the trend of mass-produced sentimental accessories used as gifts for Valentine's Day or anniversaries during the late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Very Good; light surface tarnish in crevices, minimal plating wear on the raised edges, clasp appears functional.
Value Estimate
$15 - $25 (Costume/Plated) or $35 - $60 (if Sterling Silver).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid silver dips as they will remove the intentional oxidation/patina in the recesses.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Paloma Picasso Hearts (smoother, higher quality), James Avery Heart Brooches (heavier, hand-finished), and 1950s Marvella Brooches.
Interesting Facts
The 'Heart' became a primary motif in 1980s jewelry as a trend toward 'New Romanticism' and Victorian-revival fashion gained popularity.