Faux Shell Brooch Appraisal

Gerry's Vintage Cameo Faux Shell Resin Antiqued Gold Tone Brooch/Pendant

This item is a vintage brooch that can also be worn as a pendant, featuring a classic cameo design. The central motif is an oval-shaped cameo, likely crafted from faux shell resin, depicting the profile of a woman's head and shoulders. The cameo uses contrasting colors, with a pale, off-white or cream-colored relief against a darker, reddish-brown background, mimicking the appearance of natural shell or stone cameos. The woman's hair is styled in an elaborate updo, and her facial features are finely detailed, indicating a good level of craftsmanship for a faux material. The cameo is set within an ornate, antiqued gold-tone metal frame. This frame is diamond-shaped with a central oval bezel holding the cameo. The gold-tone metal exhibits an aged, possibly intentionally darkened finish, which adds to its vintage aesthetic. The frame itself is highly decorative, featuring intricate scrollwork, filigree, and possibly small bead-like accents around the edges, creating a visually rich and complex border. On the reverse side, a traditional pin mechanism with a safety clasp is present, allowing it to function as a brooch. Additionally, a loop or bail is integrated at the top, enabling its use as a pendant on a chain. The overall condition appears good, consistent with vintage wear, though specific wear on the metal or cameo surface is not clearly discernible from the images, save for the antiqued finish. The 'Gerry's' marking, as suggested by the context, indicates this piece was manufactured by Gerry's Creations, a costume jewelry company known for producing affordable yet stylish pieces, particularly from the mid-20th century.