Spray Of Jewels - Vintage Rhodium Plated Austrian Swarovski Aurora Borealis Crystal Brooch (VBR215)

Spray Of Jewels - Vintage Rhodium Plated Austrian Swarovski Aurora Borealis Crystal Brooch. This gorgeous brooch is crafted from rhodium plate over a base metal. Featuring marquise shaped Austrian Swarovski crystal, round cut Austrian Swarovski crystal, vintage styling, and quality craftsmanship. This brooch is made in the form of a spray of jewels resembling a floral motif, which are expertly claw-set with sparkling amethyst purple crystals and aurora borealis crystals. The pin on the back fits securely into a locking mechanism. The vintage brooch would make a lovely gift or addition to any vintage jewelry collection. 

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.

Swarovski crystals were first invented in 1895 by Austrian jeweler Daniel Swarovski. The crystals contain more than 30% lead, making for a harder, more reflective, higher quality stone. Swarovski crystals revolutionized the industry, using proprietary technology to cut faceted stones.

In 1956, Daniel Swarovski collaborated with Christian Dior to create the popular Aurora Borealis (AB) effect that is still used to this day on crystal colors. During this era, Hollywood designers started using Swarovski Crystals en masse.

Rhodium has been used as a coating for jewelry and silverware since the 1930s. It was also used as a plating for cigarette lighters and writing instruments during that time. One of the many companies that used rhodium plating was the Ronson Lighter Company, which produced many art-deco style items in the 30s.

Measurements: Brooch 53.00 mm x 36.00 mm 

Stone Size: Swarovski Crystal (Marquise) 14.00 m x 8.00 mm - 8.00 x 5.00 mm    (Round)3.50 mm each 

Weight: 12.80 grams 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: America 

Date: Circa 1960