12/02/2024
It’s not often I find a mid century brooch in such gorgeous condition. This Hattie Carnegie pin hails from the US, and is over 60 years old and glowing, having clearly been cherished 💖
It dates from the late 1950s to 1960s. The glorious Art Deco gold plated setting has pristine imitation turquoise, lapis lazuli and deco style sparkling clear keystone rhinestones 💎
The turquoise is glossy and shines, the lapis lazuli also, with gold flecks catching the light as it moves. The keystone paste crystals give elegance to the piece. This is without question the most mouthwatering colourway for this particular style.
Hattie Carnegie, born Henrietta Kanengeiser in 1889 in Vienna, Austria, was a highly influential figure in American fashion and costume jewellery during the mid-20th century. She emigrated to the United States as a child and eventually became a prominent fashion entrepreneur and designer, founding her own company, Hattie Carnegie, Inc, in New York City in the 1920s.
Carnegie's foray into costume jewellery began in the 1930s, when she expanded her fashion empire to include a jewellery line. This move was part of her broader vision to offer a complete styling experience, where clients could coordinate their entire outfit from 'head to hem'. Hattie Carnegie's jewellery was known for its elegance and quality, often being compared to fine jewellery in terms of design and craftsmanship.
Her costume jewellery designs were innovative and varied, ranging from elegant, understated pieces to more bold and colourful creations. Carnegie's collections often reflected the prevailing fashion trends and sometimes led them, with her keen eye for style and understanding of women's fashion needs.
She was particularly known for her animal figurals, Asian-inspired motifs, and elegant floral designs, all crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
Carnegie employed a team of skilled designers to create her jewellery collections. One of the most notable was Kenneth Jay Lane, who later became a famous jewellery designer in his own right. Under her guidance, the designers created pieces that were not only fashionable but also wearable.
Hattie Carnegie herself died in 1956. The company continued until the late 1970s.
Today, Hattie Carnegie jewellery is a coveted collectible item. Vintage collectors and fashion enthusiasts seek out her pieces, not only for their beauty and craftsmanship but also for their historical significance.
https://fififoxvintage.etsy.com/listing/1673348555
