Art Deco Sterling Silver and Turquoise Filigree Circle Brooch
Jewelry (Brooch/Pin) · Unidentified maker; likely a specialist in fine filigree silver jewelry common in American or European workshops during the early 20th century. High-quality production similar to pieces by Foster & Bailey or Fishel Nessler Co.
Pattern: Geometric Art Deco Filigree with Applied Floral/Leaf Accents
Type
Jewelry (Brooch/Pin)
Maker
Unidentified maker; likely a specialist in fine filigree silver jewelry common in American or European workshops during the early 20th century. High-quality production similar to pieces by Foster & Bailey or Fishel Nessler Co.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with small turquoise cabochon accents and a steel pinstem for durability.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter: 2.5 to 3 cm (approx. 1 inch); Estimated weight: 3-5 grams.
Description
An elegant example of Art Deco personal adornment, this circle brooch showcases the era's fascination with lace-like metalwork. The piece features a central geometric frame accented by a naturalistic spray of leaves embedded with tiny turquoise beads, offering a soft contrast to the rigid symmetry of the silver frame.
Key Features
Intersecting geometric bridge across the center, fine milgrain detailing on the outer rim, and the preservation of original turquoise accents.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with small turquoise cabochon accents and a steel pinstem for durability.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized/tarnished silver finish featuring intricate die-struck filigree work, milgrain edging, and applied floral motifs with small inset turquoise stones. The style is classic Art Deco with geometric piercing.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped 'STERLING' on the reverse or on the clasp. A maker's mark or hallmark is likely present but obscured by heavy tarnish in current state.
Construction Details
Precision die-struck and assembled; delicate wire-work filigree effect created through fine metal piercing and stamping. Features a horizontal pinstem with a safety 'C' clasp or trombone catch.
Functional Features
Single horizontal hinge and clasp mechanism for attachment to clothing; open-work design allows the color of the garment underneath to show through.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (Jewelry item); features a standard fine-gauge silver or steel pinstem.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-work with clean piercings. The alignment of the bridges and the delicate milgrain edges indicate a skilled commercial workshop.
Authentication Indicators
The style of the 'stepped' geometric bridges is highly indicative of 1930s design; wear on the pin hinge suggests authentic age rather than a modern reproduction.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Germany (Pforzheim region), known for high-volume, high-quality silver filigree jewelry during the interwar years.
Era & Period
Art Deco (1920-1940); identified by the geometric 'stepped' patterns and the use of small-scale filigree common in 'white metal' jewelry of the period.
Age Estimate
Circa 1925-1935 based on the clasp style and geometric architectural motifs.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in the early 20th century, where mass-manufacturing techniques allowed middle-class women to wear sophisticated, architecturally inspired jewelry.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant heavy tarnish/oxidization throughout. The pin appears straight, though stones should be checked for stability. One stone may be missing or discolored from the left side of the leaf-cluster.
Value Estimate
$45 - $85 USD depending on mark clarity and stone completeness.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with a soft jewelry cloth. Avoid silver 'dips' as they can damage the porous turquoise stones. Use a very soft toothbrush with mild soapy water for crevices if necessary.
Similar Pieces
Edwardian circle brooches (usually more floral and less geometric) or marcasite silver brooches (which use iron pyrite for sparkle instead of turquoise).
Interesting Facts
Brooches of this style were often called 'Lacy Sterling' and were popular gifts during the Depression era as they offered a diamond-like look at a fraction of the cost.