Smithsonian Institution vintage costume jewelry
Red Cardinal bird on a pine branch vintage brooch, created according to the works of art from the museum collections. Gold tone, gilding, enamel, rhinestones. 6 cm. Smithsonian Institution vintage costume jewelry
Smithsonian Institution vintage costume jewelry
The history of Smithsonian jewelry, inspired by museum collection pieces began in the late 1960s. The costume jewelry marked SI, which appeared before the 1970s, boasts a wide variety of stylistic solutions inspired by priceless exhibits. Noteworthy, each piece is made by hand by skillful craftsmen with the use of gold and silver tone alloys, rhinestones and art glass imitating natural stones. Also, the makers provided a short story or information about the original item which served served as the prototype.
SI marked handcrafted decorations are highly collectible.
Mary Todd bracelet. Inspired by the invaluable treasure of the Smithsonian Institute – an exquisite bracelet watch owned by Mary Ann Todd Lincoln – the wife of the 16th US President Abraham Lincoln. Metal alloy, crystals, enamel
Toy horse gold tone vintage brooch based on the 1962 Christmas stamps. 4 cm. 1996. Marked Smithsonian AVON
Maker’s mark
Cat brooch. Gold tone, faux pearl. 4.5 cm. 1980s. Inspired by the ‘Kittens’ series from mid-19th century color lithography at the National Museum of American History. Marked SI
Green ribbon and buckle brooch. Gold tone, enamel, crystals, glass. 4.5 cm. 1990s
US flag brooch. Gold tone, white, blue, red enamel
Swallow vintage brooch. Silver tone, rhinestones
Steam train brooch. 1996. Gold tone, enamel, rhinestones
Angel Christmas brooch. Gold tone, enamel
Three birds on a branch vintage brooch. Metal alloy, enamel. 7 cm
Victorian hearts brooch. Gold tone, glass, crystals. 4.5 cm
Maker’s mark
