08/18/2026
✨ CURATOR’S DEEP DIVE: 1950s Aurora Borealis Jewelry ✨
Few things capture the glamour of the 1950s quite like Aurora Borealis costume jewelry. 💎
Introduced in the mid-1950s, Aurora Borealis—or “AB”—crystals feature a special iridescent finish inspired by the Northern Lights, allowing the stones to shift between beautiful shades of pink, blue, gold, green, and violet as they catch the light. Swarovski developed the effect during its collaboration with Christian Dior, and it quickly became a signature look of late-1950s fashion.
Today, vintage AB necklaces, brooches, bracelets, and earrings remain wonderfully collectible—not only for their unmistakable sparkle, but for the fabulous mid-century glamour they represent.
✨ Curator’s Tip: Genuine Aurora Borealis rhinestones help date a piece to 1955 or later, making that rainbow finish a useful clue when identifying vintage costume jewelry.
The adjustable bracelet is beaded with Aurora Borealis crystals, adding a touch of elegance to any outfit.