Vintage Multi-Color Rhinestone Butterfly Brooch
Unbranded (Likely Mid-Market Costume Jewelry) · Jewelry & Watches > Vintage Costume Jewelry > Brooches & Pins
Era / Decade
1960s-1970s. The open-work wire frame, use of multi-colored chaton rhinestones, and the marquise-cut faux peridot glass cabochon are characteristic of mid-century costume jewelry trends.
Material
Gold-tone base metal alloy with prong-set glass rhinestones and one green glass marquise cabochon. Construction uses a soldered wire technique common in mass-produced vintage pieces.
Condition
Good Vintage Condition. All stones appear present, but there is visible darkening/oxidation on the gold-tone finish (patina) and light surface wear on the stones. No visible chips in the glass.
Demand Level
Moderate. Vintage butterfly pins have a steady niche audience, particularly in spring and summer. Demand is highest for 'costume jewelry collectors' rather than luxury brand buyers.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$15.00 - $35.00
Estimated Retail Value
$5.00 - $10.00 (original historical retail price equivalent)
Comparable Sales
Similar unbranded mid-century rhinestone butterfly pins typically sell for $18-$28 on eBay. Signed pieces (e.g., Trifari or Weiss) can reach $75+, but this unbranded version sits in the entry-level vintage market.
Description
Exquisite vintage butterfly brooch featuring a vibrant palette of multi-colored rhinestones. This charming piece showcases a gold-tone open-wire wing design filled with prong-set chaton rhinestones in shades of pink, blue, yellow, and amber. The body is accented with a central pink stone and a striking green marquise-cut glass cabochon for the lower body. Perfect for collectors of vintage animal motifs or as a pop of color for a lapel or scarf.
Key Features
Popular butterfly motif, multi-color palette (highly versatile), vintage 1960s aesthetic, prong-set stones (higher quality than glued), and intact glass cabochon.
Authenticity Indicators
Verified vintage by construction style (soldered wire, prong settings). No designer hallmark suggests it is a generic high-quality manufacturing piece from the era. Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Metal oxidation/tarnish on the back and wing edges. The stones may have slight 'foil' degradation (greying) due to age, common in vintage rhinestones. The pin mechanism (clasp) condition is unknown but should be checked for tension.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage seekers), eBay (best for broad reach), and Poshmark. Also well-suited for a local antique mall booth.
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'MCM', 'Retro', 'Boho', and 'Spring Jewelry'. Photograph in natural light to show the stone colors accurately. Measure the dimensions (height and width) as scale is important for pins. Mention that it is 'missing no stones' to attract serious collectors.