This distinctive large Maltese cross brooch dates from the 1955-1965 era and is very impressive in craftsmanship and design. It is a brooch but can be worn as a pendant as well.
The cross is made of hammered metal with an antique gold finish that looks like old Spanish gold - the kind of gold that is found salvaging treasure from Spanish galleons. The arched or domed arms of the cross are stacked in welded circles with inset glass cabs to simulate the look of Lapis, Carnelian, and Jade. The overall look is very much like ancient Spanish jewelry.
The brooch is very large and impressive at 2 1/2" wide. The construction is weighty and solid.
The brooch is in pristine condition all around and is perfectly clean and like new. All of the glass gems are original and present.
I wish I could tell you more about who made this brooch, but it is not signed. Somewhere in the anals of all my jewelry books and vintage jewelry ads, I seem to recall that this brooch was made by Florenza. The construction both front and back does look like Florenza, but I cant rule out that it might have been made by KJL, ART, Jeanne, or Les Bernard. It was assuredly US designer made, just not signed.
Comes gift wrapped and shipped in a new presentation jewelry box.
*You can add a gold brooch slider to convert this pin to a pendant by checking the option box.
