Vintage Silver-Tone Mother of Pearl Scroll Brooch

This is a horizontal vintage brooch featuring a large, circular cabochon of Mother of Pearl (nacre) as its central focal point. The shell displays excellent luster and characteristic iridescent play-of-color, shifting between soft pinks, blues, and iridescent whites. The central stone is approximately 1 inch in diameter and is securely held within a silver-toned metal framework. The metalwork is designed in an asymmetrical, flowing Art Nouveau-inspired scroll and wave pattern. It features various 'beaded' or granulated accents along the curves of the metalwork, adding texture and visual interest. The construction suggests a mid-20th-century piece (circa 1950s-1970s), likely composed of silver-plated base metal or sterling silver, though no hallmarks are visible from the front view. The metal shows minor surface wear and light oxidation consistent with age, but no major structural damage or missing components are evident. The craftsmanship is of good commercial quality, with smooth curves and a polished finish that highlights the contrast between the metal and the biological gemstone. The overall design evokes an oceanic or celestial theme, with the round shell piece mimicking a moon or sun rising above stylized waves.

I have conducted a visual examination of the Vintage Silver-Tone Mother of Pearl Scroll Brooch. The piece showcases a well-preserved central nacre cabochon with strong iridescence across the color spectrum. The Art Nouveau-inspired scrollwork displays minor surface oxidation and micro-scratching on the metal surfaces, typical for a mid-20th-century fashion accessory. While the design is aesthetically pleasing and the structural integrity remains intact, the absence of hallmarks suggests it is likely a high-quality costume piece rather than a designer sterling silver item. The market for mid-century organic-themed brooches remains stable, with demand driven by 'retro' enthusiasts and collectors of oceanic motifs. Comparables for unsigned base-metal and shell jewelry from this era typically trade in the under-$100 range. Key value drivers include the size of the central stone and the lack of visible adhesive residue at the setting. Limitations: I cannot verify the metal purity (e.g., silver content) or detect internal fractures in the shell without a physical loupe inspection. A full valuation would require a nitric acid test or XRF analysis to confirm metal composition and a tactile check for manufacturer marks along the pin mechanism. Historical provenance or its original box would potentially elevate the secondary market value by 20%.