Brooches (pins) are back in style. Madeleine Albright may have started it when she became U.S. Secretary of State in 1997 and became known for wearing large brooches. Some of her pins are patriotic (like her c.1940 Trifari American eagle and Uncle Sam top hat shown here) and others had special significance related to her diplomatic missions. Secretary Albright's brooches are so well-known that the Museum of Arts and Design in New York City has mounted an exhibit of 200 of her pins. The exhibit runs until January 31, 2010.The oversized "boyfriend" jacket with classic tailoring and wide shoulders is perfect for a large, showy brooch. Antique brooches are being copied today.
5 comments:
I have a large Chanel brooch measuring 3 1/2" x 3 1/4". It can be worn as a pin or pendant. It is gold colored with rhinstones and colored stones. I would like to know where I can get it appraised. I took it to a large antique show in Miami last year and the dealers I showed it to varied wildly as to its worth. Suggestions?
Depending on where you live - the pin should only be appraised by a qualified dealer in costume/fashion jewelry. It will get a higher value in NY or LA than it would elsewhere.
I love the Albright book. I had no idea of the size and quality of her collection. They contacted me to repair one of her pieces prior to the exhibit opening...I now have an autographed copy of the book...
Rhinestone Rosie in Seattle
My friend bought a vintage Art-Deco brooch and asked me to use it in a necklace design using Himalayan crystals. She was really pleased with how it turned out and has had many compliments.
I don't know if links are allowed, but it is the last necklace on this page of my website:
http://katlafrance.com/id5.html
Thanks.
If I'm not mistaken, there is a book about Madeleine Albright's pins on the market now. Perfect for a holiday gift.
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