A luminous mid-century brooch crafted from dozens of faceted aurora borealis crystal beads, individually wired into a sculptural maple leaf form. The crystals flash with iridescent hues of ice blue, lilac, gold, and opal pink under the light, giving the piece a jeweled, snow-glow radiance that is unmistakably 1950s.
Unlike later glued rhinestone work, this brooch is fully hand-wired, a construction style seen in early post-war artisan costume jewelry. Lightweight but dimensional, the leaf has a raised profile and a sparkling, clustered texture that makes it perfect for evening wear, bridal styling, collectible display, or seasonal fashion.
A rare surviving example of mid-century wired crystal craftsmanship — elegant, ethereal, and increasingly difficult to source in this condition.
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Era: 1950s, Mid-Century
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Materials: Faceted aurora borealis crystal beads, gold-tone metal wiring
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Design: Multi-layered maple leaf motif
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Size: Approx. 2.5 inches tall
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Construction: Hand-wired (not glued)
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Markings: Unsigned, typical of early artisan crystal work
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Condition: Excellent vintage condition with bright crystals and secure wiring
Collector's Note
Hand-wired AB crystal brooches from the 1950s are becoming increasingly scarce — most surviving pieces today are missing stones, yellowed, or bent. This one retains its full sparkle and structure, making it ideal for collectors of pre-rhinestone-panel costume jewelry, mid-century bridal accessories, or holiday jewel tones.
