Enamel Turtle Brooch Appraisal

Vintage Enamel and Gold-Tone Turtle Brooch

A charming figural turtle brooch featuring a whimsical, stylized design. The pin is constructed from a gold-tone metal base, likely brass or a similar alloy, which defines the outlines of the turtle’s head, limbs, and shell compartments using a cloisonné-style technique. The shell is artistically segmented into asymmetrical cells, each filled with vibrant, translucent enamel in shades of burnt orange, deep garnet red, and jet black. The head and flippers also feature orange enamel work. These enamels possess a fine granular or glittered texture beneath the surface, which catches the light and adds depth to the color. This specific aesthetic suggests a mid-to-late 20th-century origin, possibly dating between the 1960s and 1980s, reflecting the era's taste for bold, figurative costume jewelry. The craftsmanship shows careful application of the enamel within the metal borders, though the piece is unsigned on the visible surface. In terms of condition, the brooch appears well-preserved with some minor surface patina and light scratches on the metal edges consistent with occasional wear. There are no significant cracks or losses to the enamel sections, and the structural integrity of the metal outlines remains intact. This item represents a high-quality example of mass-market vintage costume jewelry, valued for its playful subject matter and rich autumnal color palette.