11 Rare Costume Jewelry Pieces That Are Rising in Value

In recent years, costume jewelry has gained a reputation for being more than just pretty adornments. Many vintage pieces are now fetching impressive prices in the market. The growing interest in these items is fueled by their distinctive designs and the stories behind them. If you’ve collected costume jewelry over the years, it could be time to assess its value. There are some treasures out there that might surprise you with their worth.

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Marcel Boucher Brocade brooch

Produced in the 1940s by Marcel Boucher, this brooch features layered metalwork, enamel, and rhinestones, with the signature MB mark and an inventory number. Pieces from Boucher’s early years, especially those with numbered examples, were produced in limited runs, making them particularly rare. The intricate design and fine craftsmanship give this brooch its collectible appeal. Collectors value these early pieces because they reflect the high standards of jewelry craftsmanship in that era. As mid-century costume jewelry gains popularity, the demand for this particular brooch has significantly increased, making it a prized item.

The value of the brooch comes from its age, unique design, and the limited number of surviving examples. In good condition, these pieces can fetch anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000, depending on the quality and preservation. However, wear and tear, such as missing stones or tarnishing, can lower its price. The original patina and lack of repairs add to its appeal. If you own one in excellent condition, it could be worth a considerable sum on the collector’s market.

Marcel Boucher Parisina sterling drop earrings

These sterling silver earrings were produced in the 1940s under the Parisina line by Marcel Boucher, a designer known for his high-end craftsmanship. The use of sterling silver rather than base metals makes these earrings stand out from other costume jewelry pieces of the time. Signed with MB Parisina, they represent a high-quality standard that is increasingly rare. Collectors appreciate the timeless design and fine materials used in the construction, which add to their rarity and value. As vintage designer jewelry continues to gain traction, these earrings have experienced a noticeable rise in demand.

The value of these earrings is influenced by their designer pedigree and the sterling silver material, which is less common in costume jewelry. They can now be worth anywhere from $400 to $600, with pristine examples fetching the highest prices. Condition plays a major role-pieces with missing stones or damaged clips will have a significantly lower market value. A matching pair, with original clips and minimal signs of wear, will command a much higher price. If you have a pair in good condition, it could be worth far more than you expect.

Kramer of New York Diamond Look rhinestone parure

Produced in the 1950s, the Diamond Look parure by Kramer includes a necklace, bracelet, and earrings, all set with Austrian crystals. The shimmering rhinestones used in the set replicate the appearance of diamonds, making the parure an affordable yet luxurious-looking option for costume jewelry lovers. Known for its bold designs, Kramer’s pieces from this era are highly sought after by collectors. The limited production and signature Kramer of NY mark contribute to its rarity and value. As interest in vintage mid-century jewelry increases, sets like these are seeing their values climb steadily.

Well-preserved sets, especially complete ones, can now fetch between $800 and $1,500. The price varies depending on the condition, completeness of the set, and clarity of the signature. Missing stones, tarnished metalwork, or wear to the clasp can all significantly lower the value. Collectors prioritize matching sets in excellent condition, as they are much harder to find than individual pieces. If you have a full set in good shape, it may be a hidden treasure.

Trifari Alfred Philippe butterfly brooch

Designed by Alfred Philippe for Trifari in the 1930s, this butterfly brooch is adorned with pave rhinestones and enamel wings, with the signature Trifari and sometimes Alfred Philippe on the back. Known for its high-quality rhinestone work and artistic design, it’s a rare piece from a significant designer in costume jewelry history. Philippe’s early designs for Trifari, especially those featuring animal motifs, are highly collectible today. The butterfly design, in particular, is symbolic of the era’s fashion and art-deco influences. As these early pieces become harder to find, their value continues to rise.

This brooch is now valued between $1,200 and $2,000, depending on its condition and rarity. Pieces in perfect condition, with no missing stones or enamel damage, are worth significantly more. A signed example with clear, crisp rhinestones and no tarnish is considered a premium find. As demand for early Trifari pieces increases, collectors are paying closer attention to those signed by Philippe. If you own one, keeping it in top condition will ensure it holds its value on the market.

Trifari Duette dress clip set

This dress clip set, produced by Trifari in the 1950s, features two separate clips that can be worn together or individually. Known as the Duette design, these clips were designed to provide versatility and style. The set is signed Trifari and showcases the rhinestone work and elegant design for which the brand is known. The ability to wear the clips in different configurations adds a layer of uniqueness, making it rare. Over time, matching sets have become harder to find, increasing their desirability among collectors.

A well-preserved set can be worth between $600 and $900, depending on the condition and completeness of the set. The clips should match, have their original settings, and be in good working condition for maximum value. Wear, missing rhinestones, or repairs will decrease the price. The versatility of the design is also a factor-sets in excellent condition with minimal wear can fetch the highest prices. If you’re lucky enough to own a matched set, now is a good time to assess its worth.

Hattie Carnegie lion-design bracelet and earrings

Created by Hattie Carnegie in the 1960s, this set features a lion motif in gold-tone metal, enamel, and rhinestones. The bold design reflects the strong animal motifs that were popular during the era, making this set particularly collectible. Carnegie’s high-end costume jewelry, especially her animal-themed pieces, has become increasingly sought after. The lion design, in particular, continues to attract attention for its elegance and distinctive appeal. As vintage costume jewelry experiences a revival, the value of these pieces is climbing.

This set can now fetch between $2,000 and $2,400, depending on the condition and completeness of the pieces. Matching sets in excellent condition, with all stones intact and minimal wear, will command the highest prices. The lion motif adds to its allure, making it a favorite among collectors of animal-themed jewelry. A set with missing rhinestones, enamel chips, or repairs will be worth less. Collectors are drawn to the uniqueness and high quality of this vintage design.

Miriam Haskell triple-strand faux pearl necklace

This triple-strand faux pearl necklace, produced by Miriam Haskell in the 1940s, features high-quality pearls, glass bead accents, and a filigree clasp, all signed with Haskell’s signature. Known for its intricate craftsmanship, Haskell’s pieces from this era are highly collectible. The use of faux pearls, instead of actual pearls, reflects the designer’s ability to create luxury-looking pieces without the high cost of real gemstones. As vintage designer jewelry gains popularity, Haskell’s early pieces, particularly this necklace, have become rare finds. The quality of craftsmanship and the designer label both contribute to its rising value.

In excellent condition, this necklace can now be valued between $700 and $1,200. The value is heavily dependent on the condition of the pearls, beads, and the clasp. Missing beads or damaged strands can significantly lower its price. The filigree clasp, in particular, is an important feature for collectors. As the demand for vintage Haskell pieces continues to rise, the value of this necklace will likely increase as well.

Butler and Wilson crystal tiara brooch

This tiara-shaped brooch, designed by Butler and Wilson in the 1970s, features clear and colored crystals set in gold-tone metal. Known for their bold and luxurious designs, Butler and Wilson’s pieces are becoming increasingly collectible. The tiara design is particularly unique, adding an element of fantasy and sophistication to any collection. As vintage costume jewelry continues to rise in popularity, collectors are paying more attention to pieces by prominent designers like Butler and Wilson. The crystal-encrusted design makes this brooch stand out, contributing to its growing value.

The value of this brooch has steadily increased, and it can now be worth between $500 and $800, depending on its condition. Pieces with missing stones or damaged metalwork will be valued lower. The clarity of the signature and the condition of the crystals are important factors that influence price. Brooches in perfect condition, with no cracks or tarnish, can fetch a premium. As demand for vintage Butler and Wilson jewelry grows, this tiara brooch is likely to continue appreciating in value.

Signed Weiss snowflake brooch with aurora borealis stones

Produced in the 1950s by Weiss, this brooch features a snowflake design with aurora borealis rhinestones, which give it an iridescent sparkle. The use of aurora borealis stones and the snowflake motif make this piece a unique find in vintage costume jewelry. Weiss was known for its high-quality rhinestone jewelry, and pieces from the 1950s are highly collectible. Snowflake designs, especially around the holiday season, have become popular among collectors, making this brooch increasingly rare. As more collectors seek out vintage designs, the value of this piece has steadily risen.

The value of the snowflake brooch depends on its condition and the clarity of the rhinestones. In excellent condition, it can sell for around $400–$700. Missing rhinestones or damage to the metalwork can lower the price significantly. The presence of the original signature and the quality of the aurora borealis finish add to the appeal. A well-preserved example with all stones intact is a valuable addition to any collection.

Hobe cameo bracelet

This bracelet, made in the 1930s by Hobe, features carved shell cameos set in metal links, with the signature Hobe visible on the clasp. The use of shell cameos, which were carved by hand, adds to the bracelet’s unique appeal. Hobe pieces from this era are known for their intricate designs and use of high-quality materials, making them highly collectible. The rarity of this bracelet, combined with the designer’s prestigious name, has caused its value to rise in recent years. Collectors are particularly drawn to the craftsmanship and attention to detail in these early Hobe pieces.

The current market value for this bracelet is estimated to be between $600 and $1,000, depending on its condition. The bracelet’s value is greatly influenced by the clarity of the shell cameos and the condition of the metalwork. A piece with chipped cameos or damaged links will be worth less, while a bracelet in excellent condition can fetch a higher price. The signature is an important factor in determining its authenticity and value. As vintage designer jewelry continues to be in demand, pieces like this Hobe cameo bracelet will continue to appreciate in value.

Signed Schreiner beaded aurora borealis necklace

Produced in the 1950s by Schreiner of New York, this necklace features layered beads and aurora borealis finish stones set in brass, signed Schreiner N.Y. The use of aurora borealis rhinestones and the layered beadwork make this piece stand out. Schreiner’s intricate beadwork and commitment to quality make his designs highly sought after in the vintage jewelry market. The rising popularity of Schreiner’s work has contributed to the increased demand for this type of necklace. As collectors seek out unique, high-quality pieces from the mid-century era, the value of this necklace continues to rise.

The market value for this necklace is estimated to range from $500 to $900, depending on the condition and completeness of the piece. The value is influenced by the number of beads, the condition of the aurora borealis stones, and the presence of the original clasp. Pieces with broken or missing beads will be valued lower, while a necklace in excellent condition can command a higher price. Schreiner’s signature is an important factor in determining its authenticity and value. As interest in vintage costume jewelry grows, this iconic piece is expected to increase in value.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.