Value of Old Brooches: Metal, Maker Marks, Stones, Style and Condition

The quick answer

The value of an old brooch depends on material, maker, stones, age, condition, and market demand. A rhinestone brooch, sterling brooch, 18k gold brooch, and Art Deco diamond brooch should not be valued the same way.

Need a documented value for insurance, an estate or a sale? A jewelry appraisal from photos covers hallmarks, maker marks and condition, and ends in a signed report from $59 ($99 for insurance replacement value).

Brooch value drivers

• Material: gold, platinum, sterling, enamel, pearls, diamonds, gemstones, marcasite, or costume metal.
• Maker: designer signatures, maker stamps, retailer marks, and country marks can change demand.
• Construction: clasp, hinge, pin stem, solder, hand work, repairs, and conversion from clip or pendant.
• Condition: missing stones, bent pins, enamel loss, cracked pearls, worn plating, and polishing all matter.

Photo checklist

• Front, back, clasp, hinge, pin stem, side profile, and any pendant loop.
• Close-ups of marks, stones, enamel, pearls, repairs, breaks, and missing parts.
• Measurements, weight, box, receipt, old appraisal, and family history.

When to get a professional appraisal

Use professional appraisal for gold, platinum, diamonds, designer signatures, antique brooches, estate use, insurance, donation, or sale. For formal needs, see qualified appraisals.

Related guides

Continue with value of old gold jewelry, value of old cameos, free antique jewelry appraisal online, free jewelry appraisal app, and jewelry and watch guides.

FAQ

Are costume brooches worth anything?

Some are modest, but signed costume brooches, strong design, and good condition can create resale demand.

Can a brooch be worth more as gold?

Sometimes, but check maker, design, stones, and period before treating it as scrap.