Cattail Brooch Appraisal

Vintage Gold Tone Cattail Brooch/Pin

This item is a vintage gold tone brooch or lapel pin, designed in the elegant form of a cluster of cattails. The pin consists of a main body depicting three cattail stalks, two of which feature distinct, elongated oval-shaped 'heads' or seed pods, while a third, smaller cattail head is visible peeking from behind the primary elements. The surface of the pin appears to be a polished gold tone metal, suggesting either gold plating or a brass/other base metal with a gold wash, giving it a bright, reflective sheen. The design is fluid and organic, with the cattail stalks textured with subtle parallel lines, mimicking natural plant fibers, enhancing the botanical aesthetic. The larger cattail heads are raised and smoothly finished, providing a volumetric contrast to the flatter stalks. The construction indicates that it is a stick pin style, as evidenced by the thin, straight pin projecting from the bottom part of the cattail cluster, and a separate, corresponding stopper or cap piece visible below it. The pin and its stopper appear to be in good condition with no obvious signs of significant wear or heavy scratches on the visible surfaces, and the gold tone finish remains vibrant. Its estimated age, given the 'vintage pin' context, would likely be mid to late 20th century. The craftsmanship is clean with well-defined edges, indicating a moderate level of quality in its manufacture. There are no discernible maker's marks or signatures visible from the provided image.