Sparkling Wreath - Vintage Gold Plate Swarovski Aurora Borealis Crystal Rhinestone Wreath Brooch (VBR229)

Sparking Wreath - Vintage Gold Plated Swarovski Aurora Borealis 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 Swarovski Aurora Borealis 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 1883, Daniel formed a jewelry company and by 1886, they had over 70 employees, and supplied jewelry for Queen Victoria. In 1891, Daniel registered a patent for the crystal cutting machine that he created and in 1895, moved from Bohemia to Wattens, Austria to begin crystal production.

Aurora Borealis, commonly known as AB, is an effect which was jointly developed by Swarovski and Christian Dior in the 1950s. AB — a shimmering opal-like finish that truly enhances the beauty and sparkle of cut crystal — is the most popular effect within the Swarovski crystals product assortment.

Measurements: Brooch 48.00 mm x 42.50 mm 

Stone Size: Crystal Rhinestone (Marquise) 14.00 mm x 7.50 mm    (Round) 7.00 mm - 3.00 mm 

Weight: 15.40 grams 

Condition: Very Good    Note: Very slight wear to gold plate on the back. 

Origin: Canada    Note: Most likely an unsigned Sherman that was originally part of a suite. 

Date: Circa 1960