Recently Sold (VBR228)

Laurel Wreath - Vintage Gold Plated Crystal Rhinestone Wreath Brooch. This Lovely brooch is crafted from gold plate over metal. The brooch features marquise and round cut crystal rhinestone gems, vintage styling, and quality craftsmanship. This pretty brooch is made in the form of a wreath, which is set with sparkling emerald green and cornflower sapphire blue crystal rhinestones. The brooch features a pin, which locks in place with a rotary style clasp. This vintage brooch would make a perfect gift for the holidays, which will be cherished for many years to come. 

History: Joseph Strasser could be credited with the precursor to our present-day Rhinestone, but it was really when Georg Freidrich Strass in 1760 invented the first ever rhinestone (artificial gemstone) from a special type of crystal found in the Rhine River that the stones we know today were born.

The process was invented in 1805 by Italian chemist Luigi Brugnatelli who plated a very thin gold layer on top of silver. Since then, it has become commonplace in the jewelry world, with many base metals covered in gold, silver, or rhodium.

In Rome they were symbols of martial victory, crowning a successful commander during his triumph. Whereas ancient laurel wreaths are most often depicted as a horseshoe shape, modern versions are usually complete rings. In common modern idiomatic usage, a laurel wreath or "crown" refers to a victory.

Measurements: Brooch 50.00 mm x 46.00 mm 

Stone Size: Crystal Rhinestone (Marquise) 12.00 mm x 7.50 mm    (Round) 8.50 mm - 3.00 mm 

Weight: 18.10 grams 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: America 

Date: Circa 1960