Vintage Aurora Borealis and Aqua Rhinestone Flower Brooch
Unbranded (Likely Regency, Weiss, or Coro) · Jewelry & Watches > Vintage Costume Jewelry
Era / Decade
Mid-1950s to Early 1960s based on the use of Aurora Borealis (AB) finish coating which was introduced by Swarovski in 1955.
Material
Gold-tone base metal setting with prong-set marquise and round glass rhinestones. Includes iridescent Aurora Borealis center and aqua-colored stones.
Condition
Good condition. All stones appear present, but there is visible darkening (greying) in the marquise stones, indicating foil backing degradation. Metal shows minor patina.
Demand Level
Moderate. Vintage costume jewelry has a dedicated collector base, particularly for floral designs and AB finish stones.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$18.00 - $32.00 depending on the platform and back-side construction quality.
Estimated Retail Value
$35.00 - $55.00 (Current market equivalent for mid-tier vintage costume pieces)
Comparable Sales
Similar unbranded 1950s blue rhinestone floral brooches typically sell for $20-$30 on eBay. Signed pieces by designers like Weiss can fetch $45-$75.
Description
Stunning mid-century vintage floral brooch featuring a layered 'sunflower' or 'daisy' motif. The center is a large round Aurora Borealis rhinestone surrounded by marquise-cut aqua blue glass crystals. A curved stem accented with small blue and AB chaton rhinestones adds elegant movement. Classic pin-back enclosure.
Key Features
Popular mid-century floral aesthetic; highly desirable Aurora Borealis 'oil-slick' finish; tiered 3D construction; classic prong-set stones rather than glued-in 'rhinestones'.
Authenticity Indicators
Prong settings are characteristic of mid-century quality costume jewelry. Confidence: High that it is period-authentic mid-century, Medium that it is a specific high-end designer without seeing a hallmark on the reverse.
Flaws to Note
Foil backing on several marquise stones has 'deadened' or greyed slightly due to age/moisture exposure. One leaf petal appears slightly misaligned.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage collectors), eBay (broadest reach), or Mercari (fast sales for lower price points).
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Mid-Century Modern', 'MCM Jewelry', 'Aurora Borealis', and 'Prong Set'. Take photos of the back to show the pin mechanism and any hallmarks. Clean gently with a dry soft cloth only; do not use liquid cleaners which can damage foil backing.