Vintage Hematite Glass Tear-Drop Dangle Brooch with Pave Rhinestones
Unbranded (Possibly Weiss, Lisner, or Kramer based on style) · Jewelry & Watches > Vintage Costume Jewelry
Era / Decade
1950s - 1960s (Mid-Century Modern style with Victorian influence)
Material
Silver-tone rhodium or nickel-plated pot metal, glass hematite-cabochon, and clear foil-backed crystal rhinestones
Condition
Good to Very Good. Some minor metal oxidation and slight dullness to a few rhinestones; the dangle mechanism is intact and functional.
Demand Level
Moderate. Steady demand for Victorian-revival styles and mourning-style jewelry among vintage collectors.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$25.00 (Low) - $40.00 (Mid) - $65.00 (High if signed)
Estimated Retail Value
$45.00 - $65.00 (Adjusted for modern equivalent quality costume jewelry)
Comparable Sales
Similar unsigned hematite and rhinestone brooches have sold on eBay for $28-$35. Signed versions by Weiss or Coro frequently reach $60+.
Description
Exquisite mid-century vintage brooch featuring a center swinging hematite-colored glass teardrop. The teardrop is framed by a pave-set rhinestone border and surrounded by outer loops of silver-tone filigree and navette-shaped black glass stones. This piece captures the 'Gothic Revival' elegance popular in the late 1950s.
Key Features
Unique mechanical 'trembling' or dangling center stone; highly desirable hematite glass color; intricate open-back filigree work; versatile size for lapels or scarves.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence this is a genuine vintage 1950s piece. Indicative features include the rollover safety clasp and the use of foil-backed glass rather than plastic. Absence of mark suggests it may have been part of a set where only the necklace was signed.
Flaws to Note
Minor surface scratches on the central hematite stone; slight graying (dead stones) in two small rhinestones on the bottom left; light tarnishing on the backside pin mechanism.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage jewelry buyers), eBay (best for broad reach), or Poshmark (good for fashion-forward accessories).
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Mourning Jewelry', 'Gothic', 'Art Nouveau Revival', and 'Hematite Glass'. Photograph against a white or velvet background to show the luster of the stones. Mention the 'dangle' or 'moving' element in the title to attract collectors of mechanical jewelry.