Carved Rose Brooch and Spiral Screw-Back Earring Set Appraisal
Category: Jewelry Set
Description
This is a vintage ivory-colored jewelry set consisting of a brooch and a pair of screw-back earrings. The brooch is crafted in the shape of a fully bloomed rose, with multiple layers of carved petals creating a naturalistic and dimensional effect. The petals are well-defined and exhibit a swirling pattern in the center, mimicking a tightly wound rosebud. The earrings feature a smaller, carved spherical shape with a spiral pattern, reminiscent of the center of the rose brooch, and are attached to silver-toned screw-back findings. The overall color of the set is a consistent, creamy off-white, suggesting either aged plastic, bakelite, or possibly natural material like bone or ivory from a non-endangered species, though further testing would be required for definitive material identification. The carving exhibits a moderate level of detail and craftsmanship. No visible maker's marks or signatures are apparent in the image. The style of the screw-back earrings and the overall design suggest a mid-20th century origin, likely dating from the 1930s to the 1950s. The condition appears good with no obvious chips or cracks visible, though some surface wear or patina consistent with age may be present. The metal findings on the earrings appear to be functional, though their exact composition (e.g., sterling silver, plated metal) is not ascertainable from the image. The set exhibits a consistent aesthetic and was likely sold as a matching ensemble. The carving on the brooch shows a good level of depth and definition in the petals, contributing to its visual appeal.
Appraisal Report
Having visually examined the Carved Rose Brooch and Spiral Screw-Back Earring Set via the provided image, I assess its condition to be good, with no apparent chips or cracks. Surface wear consistent with age is likely present but not definitively discernible. Authenticity is challenging to verify solely from images; the material appears to be a carved polymer, possibly Bakelite or plastic, consistent with mid-20th century costume jewelry. Confirmation of the material would require in-person examination or testing (e.g., hot pin test for Bakelite). The style, including the screw-back earrings and intricate carving, is indicative of the 1930s-1950s period. The consistent color and design suggest it is a matching set. Market conditions for vintage costume jewelry remain relatively stable, with pieces exhibiting good craftsmanship and unique design finding buyers. Comparables for carved floral and geometric costume jewelry from this era range significantly based on material, condition, and designer (if any). Demand for well-preserved vintage costume sets exists, but this particular form factor and material, without a known maker, are not exceptionally rare. Factors significantly impacting value include the material's identity (Bakelite would command a higher value than basic plastic), the actual condition upon physical inspection, the quality of the metal findings, and confirming it is a true set. Limitations in this remote appraisal include the inability to perform material testing, assess weight and texture, examine the reverse of the brooch for any marks, and fully evaluate the metal composition and functionality of the earring findings. Full authentication would require in-person inspection, potential material testing, and researching comparable sales of identified vintage carved sets.
Appraisal Value
$50 - $100