Vintage Sterling Silver and Aqua Rhinestone Flower Brooch

This is a vintage floral-motif brooch or pin, likely dating from the mid-20th century (circa 1940s-1950s). The item features a scalloped, five-petal flower design constructed from what appears to be gold-over-sterling silver (vermeil) based on the warm tone and the user's confirmation of it being sterling. The petals are rendered with a fine openwork or filigree textured finish, providing a light, airy aesthetic. At the center is a circular clear rhinestone, surrounded by six oval-cut faceted stones in a vibrant aqua or turquoise-blue hue, arranged like a crown or stamen. The user notes a hallmark of a large 'H' with an 'I' in the middle, which is indicative of the maker's mark for the I.H. Manufacturing Co. or similar period costume jewelers specializing in sterling silver pieces. Regarding condition, the metal shows significant tarnish and a dark patina, particularly in the recessed areas of the openwork, which is characteristic of aged sterling silver. There is visible wear to the gold plating on the raised edges. The stones appear intact, though they may have dulled slightly over time. This piece represents typical high-quality mid-century costume jewelry craftsmanship where precious metals were utilized as a base during periods of base-metal shortages.