Recently Sold (VBR257)

Honey Bee - Vintage Gold Plated Austrian Swarovski Crystal Rhinestone & Enamel Bee Brooch.  This charming brooch is crafted from gold plate over metal. The brooch features numerous round cut Austrian Swarovski crystal rhinestones, enamel work, vintage styling, and quality craftsmanship.  This brooch is made in the form of a honey bee, which is adorned by sparkling rhinestones, and black and white enamel work. The bee is substantial, yet not too large. It has a secure pin and rotary lock on the back of the brooch. This vintage brooch would make a wonderful addition to any jewelry collection. 

History: Origins. Originally, rhinestones were rock crystals gathered from the river Rhine, hence the name, although some were also found in areas like the Alps (the source of the Rhine). Today the name "rhinestone" applies only to varieties of lead glass known as crystal glass.

Swarovski Crystal was founded in 1895 by Daniel Swarovski. D. Swarovski KG. Company type, Kommanditgesellschaft. Industry, Fashion, crystal, and jewelry.

Swarovski produces crystals of the finest quality. The company's name has become synonymous with genuine crystal. Swarovski's specialized manufacturing processes, together with the highest quality raw materials, guarantee the highest possible degree of precision, component quality, consistency and unmatched brilliance.

Although the exact origins are unknown, the art of enameling has been practiced since ancient times. Excavations on Cyprus – in the Mediterranean – in the 1950s unearthed the earliest known examples of cloisonné enameled jewelry, dating from the 13th and 11th century BC.

The technology behind gold plated jewelry is credited to Italian chemist Luigi Brugnatelli. In 1805, he discovered the process for electroplating. It was quickly adopted for jewelry styles, with many Victorian jewelry pieces using gold plating.

Measurements: Brooch 25.00 mm x 37.00 mm 

Stone Size: Swarovski Crystal 2.00 mm 

Weight: 12.20 grams 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: America 

Date: Circa 1980