Luminescent Adornments - Vintage Gold Plated Austrian Swarovski Aurora Borealis Crystal Rhinestone & Glass Brooch & Earring Set (VBR253)

Luminescent Adornments - Vintage Gold Plated Austrian Swarovski  Aurora Borealis Crystal Rhinestone & Glass Brooch & Earring Set. This lovely set is crafted from gold plate over metal. The set features 5 round cut Austrian Swarovski aurora borealis crystal rhinestones, glass molded leaves, vintage styling, and quality craftsmanship. This set is comprised of beautiful sparkling crystals, displaying a wonderful variation of colors, and exquisite detailed gold, rust, and white glass leaves. The brooch has its original pin on the back, which is in perfect working order. The earrings are for pierced and non pierced ears, featuring secure clip-on backings. This delightful set would make a wonderful addition to any vintage costume jewelry collection. 

Note: Original box included, signed GENTRY. 

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.

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.

1956. Creation of the AB effect from Aurora Borealis, that makes the crystal more glitter, with the colors of the rainbow as an association with the aurora borealis. Christian Dior, charmed by the rainbow effect, is the first to use crystals to decorate the deep neckline of his creations.

Archaeological research now places the first evidence of true glass there at around 2500 B.C. At first it was used for beads, seals, and architectural decoration. Some 1,000 years elapsed before glass vessels are known to have been produced.

Measurements: Brooch 39.00 mm         Earrings 26.50 mm x 20.00 mm 

Stone Size: Swarovski Aurora Borealis Crystal Rhinestone 7.00 mm - 4.00 mm 

Weight: 15.20 grams 

Condition: Very Good   Note: Some wear to the gold plate, the set looks to be brass under the gold plate. The brass metal is nice because it makes any gold plate wear less noticeable. The wear does not take away from the beauty of the set. 

Origin: Europe , most likely Czechoslovakia. 

Date: Circa 1950