Sea & Sky - Vintage Gold Plated Turquoise & Pearl Brooch (VBR261)

Sea & Sky - Vintage Gold Plated Turquoise & Pearl Brooch (VBR261)

$195.00

Sea & Sky - Vintage Gold Plated Turquoise & Pearl Brooch. This unique brooch is crafted from gold plate over metal. The brooch features numerous round pearls (simulated), numerous turquoise (simulated), vintage styling, and quality craftsmanship. The gallery on this brooch is dimensional, and exhibits lovely detail. The central portion of the brooch is dome shaped, and adorned with beautiful white pearls, which are surrounded by turquoise, set in a twisted milgrain border. The brooch looks rich, and has a unique design. The pin on the back locks into place in a rotary type lock, which is in perfect working order. This wonderful vintage brooch would enhance any attire. Absolutely stunning!

History: Some ancient civilizations baked clay spheres coated with mica powder to imitate pearls. However, European glassmakers began to develop more sophisticated faux pearls. In the 16th century, Venetian artisans created an iridescent glass.

Curiously, in 3100 BC, perhaps because supply was not meeting demand or cheaper products became necessary, imitation turquoise was used in some ornamentation. The first imitations used were dyed varieties of softer soapstone.

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 31.00 mm x 31.00 mm

Stone Size: Pearl (Simulated) 2.50 mm Turquoise (Simulated) 2.20 mm

Weight: 17.60 grams

Condition: Excellent

Origin: America

Date: Circa 1960