
Vintage Celluloid or Early Thermoplastic Floral Brooch
This is a vintage circular brooch featuring a high-relief, molded floral design, commonly associated with costume jewelry from the 1930s to the 1950s. The piece is crafted from a cream or light beige synthetic material, likely celluloid or an early thermoplastic like Casein or Galalith. The central motif consists of a large, multi-petaled rose surrounded by smaller blossoms and foliage, showcasing a three-dimensional 'molded' aesthetic. The outer border is designed with an intricate geometric fretwork or lattice pattern that simulates lace or fine metalwork. This delicate openwork is characteristic of early plastic jewelry, which sought to mimic more expensive materials like carved ivory. The color is a uniform antique ivory tone with a matte finish. There is no visible maker's mark or signature on the front; such pieces often had simple pin-back mechanisms glued or heat-set into the reverse. The condition appears fair to good, with some visible accumulation of dust and fine debris within the deep crevices of the floral moldings, which is common for such textured pieces. No immediate structural cracks or missing petals are evident, though some slight discoloration due to aging (patina) is present. The craftsmanship displays the early industrial capability to mass-produce decorative floral elements with significant depth.
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Estimated Value
$45 - $65
Basic Information
Category
Vintage Costume Jewelry
Appraised On
February 13, 2026
Estimated Value
$45 - $65
Item Description
This is a vintage circular brooch featuring a high-relief, molded floral design, commonly associated with costume jewelry from the 1930s to the 1950s. The piece is crafted from a cream or light beige synthetic material, likely celluloid or an early thermoplastic like Casein or Galalith. The central motif consists of a large, multi-petaled rose surrounded by smaller blossoms and foliage, showcasing a three-dimensional 'molded' aesthetic. The outer border is designed with an intricate geometric fretwork or lattice pattern that simulates lace or fine metalwork. This delicate openwork is characteristic of early plastic jewelry, which sought to mimic more expensive materials like carved ivory. The color is a uniform antique ivory tone with a matte finish. There is no visible maker's mark or signature on the front; such pieces often had simple pin-back mechanisms glued or heat-set into the reverse. The condition appears fair to good, with some visible accumulation of dust and fine debris within the deep crevices of the floral moldings, which is common for such textured pieces. No immediate structural cracks or missing petals are evident, though some slight discoloration due to aging (patina) is present. The craftsmanship displays the early industrial capability to mass-produce decorative floral elements with significant depth.
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