Mid-century modernist style sculptural brooch

This item is a brooch featuring a modernist, abstract geometric design, stylistically consistent with the Studio Jewelry movement of the mid-to-late 20th century. The piece is constructed from multiple metallic elements with a warm, golden-hued finish that appears consistent with brass, bronze, or perhaps gold-plated silver. The composition includes a semi-circular main plate with a dimpled or hammered texture, an arched top bar with engraved tick marks, and a vertical bar terminating in a spherical finial. A sinuous, wavy wire element connects these components and terminates at a circular bezel-set cabochon, which appears consistent with an onyx or dark glass stone. There are no visible maker’s marks, signatures, or metal purity hallmarks in the provided image; therefore, any specific artist attribution would require physical inspection. The construction shows signs of hand-assembly, including a visible jump ring and soldered joints. The metal surfaces exhibit a light patina and minor surface micro-scratching consistent with age and previous use. The design bears a resemblance to works by modernist jewelers of the 1950s-1970s, but without a verifiable mark, it remains an unattributed example of the modernist aesthetic.

Based on my visual examination of the provided image, this brooch reflects the sculptural aesthetic of the mid-20th-century Studio Jewelry movement. From what I can see, the piece displays a sophisticated modernist composition using mixed geometric forms and textures. I cannot verify the exact metal composition from a photograph; while it bears the appearance of brass or gold-toned bronze, a physical inspection is required to determine if it is a precious metal or a plated base metal. The presence of a cabochon, possibly onyx, and the evidence of hand-assembly suggest a piece of higher craftsmanship rather than mass-produced costume jewelry. This estimate is based on the piece being an unattributed work of the period. Should the item be linked to a known modernist jeweler through a hidden mark or provenance—such as works by artists in the vein of Margaret De Patta or Art Smith—the value could significantly exceed this range. Conversely, if it is a later 'in the style of' reproduction using inferior materials, the value would likely fall below $50. The market for mid-century modernist jewelry remains strong among collectors who favor unique, wearable art. However, without a verifiable signature or hallmark, the value is restricted to its aesthetic merit and material worth. To confirm the value, I recommend a formal in-person examination to test metal purity and search for discreet maker's marks that are not visible in the current photograph.