Lion Brooch Appraisal

Vintage Gold-Tone Lion Head Brooch with Green Rhinestone Eyes

This is a vintage-style brooch crafted in the form of a majestic lion's head. The primary material appears to be a gold-tone base metal, likely a costume jewelry alloy, given its lustrous, bright yellow-gold finish. The lion's mane is intricately detailed with textured, overlapping strands, giving it a somewhat stylized and regal appearance. The face of the lion features striking bright green rhinestones for its eyes, which add a vibrant pop of color against the metallic gold. The snout is rendered in a slightly darker, possibly antiqued or oxidized, gold tone, with visible dimpling to suggest texture. The mouth is open, revealing a row of small, white, pointed teeth, adding to the fierce but decorative aesthetic. There are also hints of white or light-colored enamel details around the nose and possibly on the teeth. The overall construction suggests a cast metal piece, with good definition in the relief work of the mane and facial features. While the image does not show the reverse side, one can infer the presence of a standard pin-back fastening characteristic of brooches. The item exhibits some minor wear consistent with age and use, such as slight dulling or superficial scratches on the gold-tone finish, particularly on the higher points of the relief. There are no obvious signs of significant damage, repairs, or missing elements. The style points towards mid-20th century costume jewelry, possibly 1960s-1980s, known for bold animal motifs. The craftsmanship is indicative of mass-produced, yet well-detailed, fashion accessories of that era, prioritizing visual impact and decorative appeal. No maker's marks or signatures are discernible from the provided image.