Verdura Ray Gold Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
Verdura "Ray" gold brooch 18 karat yellow gold; marked Verdura, 750, Made in Italy Size: width
Mid-20th Century Brooches
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Verdura Ray Gold Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
Verdura "Ray" gold brooch 18 karat yellow gold; marked Verdura, 750, Made in Italy Size: width
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Verdura Garnet and Diamond "Maltese Cross" Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
Verdura garnet and diamond "maltese cross" brooch in 18k yellow gold. The brooch is set with 30
Diamond, Garnet, 18k Gold
Vintage 1970s Verdura Chalcedony and Amethyst Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
Cabochon Amethysts measuring 12 x 8 mm each. Signed by Verdura Circa 1970s 2 3/8 x 2 1/8 inch
Amethyst, Chalcedony, 18k Gold
Verdura 18K Yellow Gold & Platinum Parrot Brooch with Multigem Accents
By Verdura
Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY
A dazzling creation from the iconic house of Verdura, this vibrant parrot brooch is masterfully
Citrine, White Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, Tourmaline, 18k Go...
Vintage 1980s Verdura 20.01 Carat Sapphire Flower Brooch with Diamonds
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
treated Cushion cut Sapphire weighing 20.01 carats. The brooch features additional Round cut Sapphires
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
Verdura 1909 $10 Indian Head US Coin Yellow Gold Pin Brooch
By Verdura
Located in Southampton, PA
18k Yellow Gold And 22k Yellow Gold 1909 $10 Indian Head US Coin Pin Brooch by Verdura. With
Yellow Gold
$39,160Sale Price|20% Off
W 2.28 in L 2.28 in
Verdura Maltese Brooch Pendant 18Kt Gold With 31.1 Ctw In Diamonds & Tourmaline
By Verdura
Located in Miami, FL
Outstanding jeweled Pendant-Brooch designed by Verdura. An iconic vintage piece, designed in 1950
Diamond, Tourmaline, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Verdura 1950's Lapis Diamond Platinum 18K Gold Vintage Frog On A Leaf Brooch
By Verdura
Located in Philadelphia, PA
with locking closure Tested as platinum and 18 karat gold Fully signed for Verdura Circa: 1950s
Diamond, Lapis Lazuli, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
$32,000
H 0.98 in W 1.96 in L 1.57 in
Verdura Platinum, Gold, Baroque Cultured Pearl, Diamond, Emerald and Enamel Swan
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
Verdura Swan Brooch mounted in Diamond, Emerald, and Gold, Baroque Cultured Pearl, and Enamel
Diamond, Emerald, Cultured Pearl, Gold, Platinum, Enamel
Verdura Petite Diamond 2.25cttw Leaf Brooch
Located in New York, NY
This exquisite Verdura Petite Diamond Leaf Brooch in 18K yellow gold is a stunning representation
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Chanel Red & Turquoise Cabochon Verdura Maltese Cross Brooch circa 1993
By Chanel
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This stunning Chanel Red & Turquoise Cabochon Verdura Maltese Cross Brooch circa 1993 is a
$150,000
W 2.17 in D 0.99 in L 1.97 in
Couture Chanel Verdura Byzantine GoldCircleRope Gems PurpleHeart Medallion c1932
By Chanel
Located in Chicago, IL
gems. This softly-shaped abstract brooch design suits goldsmith Verdura's early anti-Art-Deco
Amethyst, Pearl, Quartz, Gold, Gilt Metal, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
VERDURA Lightning Bolt Brooch
By Verdura
Located in Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Verdura peridot lightning bolt brooch enhanced with diamonds in 18Kt yellow gold. American c1955
Peridot
VERDURA for BELPERRON Dramatic Large Gold Brooch
By Verdura
Located in Southampton, NY
Circa 1990’s, this large, bold brooch by Verdura for Belperron is formed by a substantial 18K gold
18k Gold
1955 Verdura Ruby Diamond Platinum Clip Brooch
By Verdura
Located in Greenwich, CT
A ruby and diamond clip brooch, of asymmetric stylized shield design with a ground of calibre cut
Diamond, Ruby, White Diamond, Platinum
VERDURA Watch Pin
By Verdura
Located in Southampton, NY
An 18 Karat yellow gold pin with a watch at the center. Signed, Verdura. Universal Movement.
Verdura 26 Carat Natural Pink Tourmaline 14 Karat Yellow Gold Brooch Pendant
By Verdura
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Fabulous Verdura brooch and pendant handcrafted in 14 karat yellow gold. The natural pink
Tourmaline, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
VERDURA Gold "Ray" Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
An 18 karat yellow gold brooch. Verdura. Signed Verdura with serial number VC858.The brooch is the
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Tanzanite Brooch by Verdura, 35.00 Carats
By Verdura
Located in New Orleans, LA
masterfully crafted brooch by Verdura. The rare stone displays the incredible deep violetish-blue hue for
Diamond, White Diamond, Tanzanite, Platinum
Verdura Wrapped Ruby Diamond Heart Brooch
By Verdura
Located in Bethesda, MD
Verdura’s collection. The brooch has been fitted with a snap-bale allowing it to be worn as a pendant. 33
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Platinum
VERDURA Yellow Gold and Diamond Ray Brooch
By Verdura
Located in London, GB
PLEASE NOTE: OUR PRICE IS FULLY INCLUSIVE OF SHIPPING, IMPORTATION TAXES & DUTIES Unusual brooch
Diamond, 18k Gold
Vintage 18k Gold Diamond Target brooch by Verdura
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
A gorgeous 18k gold diamond target brooch set with diamonds by the iconic designer Falco Di Verdura
Diamond, 18k Gold
Verdura Diamond, Platinum and Gold Wrapped Heart Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York City, NY
Very fine vintage diamond, platinum and 18K yellow gold brooch by Verdura. It features the shape of
Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Verdura 1960s 18 Karat Yellow Gold Watch Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
Verdura 18K Yellow Gold Watch Brooch. Quartz movement, round dial with the round case in radiating
Yellow Gold
Verdura Large Gold and Diamond Fern Leaf Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
An 18 karat yellow gold and diamond brooch. Signed Verdura. The brooch is designed as a fern leaf
Verdura Cabana Blue Topaz Green Tourmaline Gold Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York City, NY
Chic and refined blue topaz, green tourmaline and 18K yellow gold brooch from the "Cabana
Topaz, Tourmaline, 18k Gold
Verdura Midcentury Gold and Shell Turtle Clip Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
A mid-century engraved gold and cowrie shell brooch in the form of a turtle with ruby eyes, in 14k
Ruby, 14k Gold
Verdura Diamond, Platinum and 18k Gold Wrapped Heart Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York City, NY
Very fine vintage diamond, platinum and 18K yellow gold brooch by Verdura. It features the shape of
Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Verdura Baguette and Round Diamonds Brooch / Pin 10 Carat TDW
By Verdura
Located in Manhasset, NY
A Spectacular Verdura Baguette and Round Diamond Brooch or Pin having 10 Carat TDW. A one of a
Diamond, Platinum
Verdura Mid-20th Century Diamond Gold Platinum Pair of “Pleiades” Brooches
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
A pair of American Mid-20th Century 18 karat gold and platinum brooch with diamonds by Verdura. The
White Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Verdura 1909 $10 Indian Head US Coin Yellow Gold Pin Brooch
By Verdura
Located in Southampton, PA
18k Yellow Gold And 22k Yellow Gold 1909 $10 Indian Head US Coin Pin Brooch by Verdura. With
Yellow Gold
Sold
H 2.76 in W 2.85 in D 0.6 in
VERDURA 1970 Large Brooch Pendant In 18Kt Gold Platinum And 9.66 Ctw Diamonds
By Verdura
Located in Miami, FL
Pendant brooch designed by Verdura. This is a very rare and bold versatile pendant-brooch created
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum, 18k Gold
Verdura Byzantine Pendant Brooch Necklace
By Verdura
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Verdura "Byzantine" cross convertible pendant brooch in 18k yellow gold, centering a larger
Amethyst, Citrine, Emerald, Peridot, Ruby, Blue Sapphire, Tourmaline, Ru...
Verdura Byzantine Pendant Brooch with Chain Necklace
By Verdura
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Verdura "Byzantine" pendant brooch in 18k yellow gold, centering a larger sugarloaf cabochon-cut
Amethyst, Emerald, Ruby, Blue Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow ...
VERDURA Diamond Gold Ray Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York City, NY
Stylish diamond and 18K yellow gold brooch by Verdura, known as the "Ray" brooch. It features high
Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Verdura Diamond Gold Platinum Butterfly Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York City, NY
Very fine and rare diamond platinum & 18K yellow gold butterfly brooch by Verdura. It features
Diamond, Platinum, 18k Gold
Verdura Diamond 'En Tremblant' Flower Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
"Retailed by Verdura" Diamond 'En Tremblant' Flower Brooch In Platinum. The brooch is encrusted
Diamond, Platinum
Vintage 18k Gold Diamond Ray Brooch by Verdura
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
Stylish vintage “Ray” Brooch made in 18k gold and diamonds by Verdura circa 2000. This brooch
Diamond, 18k Gold
Rare Verdura Diamond and Enamel Zebra Brooch
By Verdura
Located in San Francisco, CA
Custom and one-of-a-kind, this wonderful Verdura piece is a mini masterpiece. In 18k white gold
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
Verdura Diamond Yellow Gold Platinum Oak Leaf Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York City, NY
Elegant diamond, platinum and 18K yellow gold brooch by Verdura, circa 1970s. It resembles an oak
Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Verdura 18k Yellow Gold Turquoise Amethyst Brooch, France
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
This Amethyst and Turquoise Brooch by Verdura Paris is a stunning piece of jewelry that exemplifies
Amethyst, Turquoise, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Verdura Tiger Eye Diamond Yellow Gold Oak Leaf Brooch
By Verdura
Located in South Pasadena, CA
Verdura tiger eye and yellow gold oak leaf brooch circa 1980. Contact us right away if you have
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Verdura Retro Diamond 14 Karat Gold Platinum Wheat Earrings and Brooch Set
By Verdura
Located in Philadelphia, PA
closure Brooch is fully signed Verdura while earrings are attributed; very-well matched as a set Both
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Verdura Gold Wishbone Money Clip
By Verdura
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Designer: Verdura Materials: 14K Yellow Gold Weight: 14.5 grams Measurement: 2" x 1 1/8
Gold, 14k Gold
Fulco Di Verdura Bone sculpture Man Riding Horse (attributed)
By Verdura
Located in North Hollywood, CA
This amazing brooch is attributed to Fulco Di Verdura and it is truly special. This sculpture is
Garnet, Peridot, 14k Gold
Sold
W 9 in D 0.63 in L 12 in
Verdura: The Life and Work of a Master Jeweler by Patricia Corbett (Book)
Located in North Yorkshire, GB
Verdura’s beguiling jewelry, from ruby hearts wrapped with braided gold rope to scallop shells
Iradj Moini 'Verdura' Brooch
Located in New York, NY
A Verdura inspired deep red cabochons wrapped in rhinestone ribbons by Iradj Moini. Set in metal.
VERDURA whale brooch
By Verdura
Located in London, GB
A citrine, emerald and diamond whale brooch by Verdura. Circa 1970’s.
Citrine, Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
VERDURA Gold & Aquamarine Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
-link border, with double pin clip back and safely catch, signed VERDURA and stamped 14K, circa 1960
Aquamarine, 14k Gold
VERDURA Gold Watch Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
A handsome polished yellow gold starburst motif brooch centering a watch, the dial signed VERDURA
18k Gold
Lovely Verdura Maple Leaf Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
The large maple leaf brooch with polished yellow gold stems set throughout with multicolored
18k Gold
Verdura Gold Watch Brooch, 1941
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
The elegant sunburst motif brooch sprinkled with white diamonds, mounted in 14kt yellow gold
Diamond, 14k Gold
VERDURA Gold & Diamond "Ray" Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
VERDURA, stamped 18K and PLAT, ca. 1990. The "ray" brooch was offered in several variations: plain gold
Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Vintage Verdura Gold & Diamond Brooch, 1953
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
heads and tails, further accented with ruby eyes, signed VERDURA, mounted in 14kt gold, double pin clip
Diamond, 18k Gold
VERDURA Tiger's Eye Oak Leaf Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
, single pin back and safety catch, signed VERDURA, stamped 18K and PLAT, ca. 1987, in original navy
18k Gold, Platinum
VERDURA Yellow Sapphire Diamond "Wrapped Heart" Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
, signed VERDURA, stamped Pt for platinum and 18K, an iconic brooch illustrated on the cover of Verdura
Sapphire, Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Verdura A Multi-Gem Diamond Platinum Mouse Brooch
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
Verdura: A Multi-Gem, Diamond and Platinum Brooch, designed in the form of a mouse, set with a
Diamond, Emerald, Opal, Ruby, Platinum, Yellow Gold
Verdura Ruby and Diamond Broohc
By Verdura
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This brooch is a Verdura original, signed and numbered. Featured are approximately 9 carats of
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Platinum
Verdura Gemstone Gold Beetle Pin
By Verdura
Located in Greenwich, CT
small cabochon-cut ruby eyes, mounted in 18k yellow gold, signed Verdura. 1.5" length and 1" width at
Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Verdura Style Faux Gemstones Brooch 2000s
Located in Austin, TX
Year: 2000 Hallmark: - Dimensions: 1.77 in Materials: base metal, faux gemstones, rhinestones
Base Metal
VERDURA A Multi-Gem and Diamond Pomegranate Brooch
Located in New York, NY
Verdura Pomegranate Brooch. 18K Gold and Platinum mount set with 24 faceted pink sapphires wieghing
VERDURA A 'Roaring Lion' Coral and Emerald Brooch
Located in New York, NY
Verdura, A 'Roaring Lion' Brooch, with a 162.50cts cabochon emerald as the body, carved coral
Iradj Moini Wrapped Heart Brooch after Fulco di Verdura
By Iradj Moini
Located in Oradell, NJ
This is an outstanding wrapped heart brooch designed by Iradj Moini after Fulco di Verdura, the
Verdura Inspired Maharajah Chess Piece Pin
Located in New York City, NY
A benefit of making costume jewelry is that the designer can get carried away without the restraint of the cost of precious stones. This has to be the most outrageous example of not ...
Magnificent Verdura Inspired Maharajah Chess Piece Gem Pin
Located in New York, NY
stop. The result is Absolutely Fabulous! Inspired by Verdura's famous Indian ivory chessmen, where he
Sterling Silver
Verdura Pink Stone Brooch & Earclips
By Verdura
Located in New York, NY
The Maltese cross brooch mounted in polished yellow gold, set with pinky plum-colored rhodolite
Garnet, Tourmaline, Diamond, 18k Gold
Sold
W 2.34 in D 0.18 in L 2.37 in
Verdura 18Kt Gold Emerald, Ruby, Sapphire and Semi-Precious Stone Pendant Brooch
By Verdura
Located in Menlo Park, CA
one of Verdura’s earliest and most influential designs. "Theodora" byzantine pendant brooch
Amethyst, Citrine, Emerald, Garnet, Peridot, Ruby, Blue Sapphire, Yellow...
Sold
W 2.34 in D 0.18 in L 2.37 in
Verdura 18kt Gold Emerald, Ruby, Sapphire and Semi-Precious Stone Pendant Brooch
By Verdura
Located in Menlo Park, CA
" pendant/brooch represents one of Verdura’s earliest and most influential designs. He also did these
Amethyst, Citrine, Emerald, Garnet, Peridot, Ruby, Blue Sapphire, Yellow...
Cartier 18k Yellow Gold EU 53 Panthere Head Solid Design Spotted Lacquer Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
CARTIER 18K Yellow Gold Panthere Head Solid Design Spotted Lacquer Ring. This is a must-have Cartier ring for every "Cartier addict". The beautiful solid gold Cartier Panthere head...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Dolce & Gabbana Lace up Silk Dress
By Dolce & Gabbana
Located in Water Mill, NY
A beautiful stretch silk leopard print dress from Dolce & Gabbana. The bodice has adjustable straps, functional and adjustable side lacing through to the hips plus rows of top st...
Moschino Photo Print Velvet Dress
By Moschino, Moschino Cheap and Chic
Located in Water Mill, NY
A gorgeous velvet dress by Moschino in an elaborate print of words and photos in beige, brown, and black. The print is amazingly detailed with photo prints of silent screen stars, w...
$39,988Sale Price|20% Off
CARTIER Paris Art Deco Enameled Cocktail Ring 18Kt Gold With Diamonds & Gemstone
By Cartier
Located in Miami, FL
An art deco ring designed by Cartier. This is a magnificent art deco ring, created in Paris France and designed by the jewelry house of Cartier. This colorful cocktail ring is very ...
Amethyst, Diamond, Jade, White Diamond, Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel, 18k Gold
$275
Size: Fits IT 40, US 4 see measurement
Dolce & Gabbana Lime Green Flared Pencil Skirt with Yellow Lace Accents
By Dolce & Gabbana
Located in San Francisco, CA
Dolce and Gabbana lime green fit and flare pencil skirt with yellow lace godet panels at bottom. Vertical seam detail at one side. Back zip and hook and eye. 100% viscose (linen-loo...
Rock Crystal and Gold Wrapped Cufflinks
Located in New York, NY
Rock Crystal and Gold Wrapped Cufflinks in the Verdura Style. 18k gold wire is wrapped around each stone as a setting with gold chain links in between to form the cuff link. Deep ova...
Rock Crystal, 18k Gold
$3,500 / set
Dm 0.45 in L 0.45 in
Pair of Tiffany & Co. Jean Schlumberger 18K Rose Gold & Ruby Taj Mahal Earrings
By Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co.
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine pair of designer earrings. By Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co. In 18 karat yellow gold. Each with a bezel-set ruby. In the 'Taj Mahal' pattern. Each marked to the reve...
Ruby, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
$16,800Sale Price|20% Off
Cartier 18K Yellow Gold Double Panthere Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
The beauty of wild cats is captured in this striking pre-owned Cartier design. Crafted in 18kt yellow gold, this ring is detailed with black enamel and boasts a double panther motif....
Emerald, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$500
Size: vintage 12; comparable to size M
Dove Gray A-Line Shift Dress with Bead-Crusted Neckline and Pockets - M, 1960s
Located in Tucson, AZ
Perfect for brunch, weddings and cocktail parties, this heavyweight linen dress combines crisp geometry with masterful but discrete beading. Its Mod fingertip pockets and gentle A-li...
$10,920
H 3.25 in W 4.5 in D 4 in
Chanel Vanity Case Micro Mini 90s Vintage Iridescent Bronze Rare Patent Clutch
By Chanel
Located in Miami, FL
Chanel Micro Mini 90s Vintage Patent Metallic Bronze Iridescent Vanity Case Rare 1994 [VINTAGE 30 Years} Diamond stitch iridescent patent leather Classic interwoven top handle Magne...
Hermes Birkin Limited Edition 25 Bag Blanc Casse Lizard Gold Hardware
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
Mightychic offers a vintage limited edition Hermes Birkin 25 bag featured in rare Blanc Casse lizard. Exquisite pale buttery cream perfectly complimented by lush Gold hardware. This ...
$21,000
Size: 42 (FR) Vintage
Givenchy Couture John Galliano F/W 1996 Red Snakeskin Trim Plunge Back Gown
By Givenchy, John Galliano
Located in Chicago, IL
A most rare piece designed by John Galliano for the Givenchy Couture Fall Winter 1996 collection. Same style worn by supermodel Shalom Harlow on the runway. Documented in a fashion a...
$760Sale Price|20% Off
ALEXANDER MCQUEEN white RIBBED & OPEN KNIT PEPLUM Dress S
By Alexander McQueen
Located in Zürich, CH
Alexander McQueen ribbed and open knit peplum dress in cream polyamide (43%), cotton (37%), viscose (11%), nylon (5%) and polyester (4%). Has short sleeves and a solid knit skirt. Ha...
1990s Valentino Black Chiffon and Velvet Dress Shirt Dress
By Valentino
Located in Toronto, Ontario
Amazing 1990s Valentino little black shirt dress from Holt Renfrew Canada. Top is black chiffon with a pussy bow tie, sheer bishop sleeves and delicate ruching at shoulders. Jet blac...
Vintage Cartier Amber Cabochon Collar Necklace 18 Karat Yellow Gold
By Cartier
Located in San Diego, CA
Cartier Vintage Signed Jewelry Style: Tubugas Yellow Gold Collar Necklace with Amber Cabochon Serial Number: 745623 Metal: 18k Yellow Gold Size: 14 Inches Dimensions: 14 - 15 ...
Amber, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1960s Helga Vintage Cocktail Dress
By Helga
Located in Sparks, NV
Absolutely stunning 1960s vintage silk satin cocktail dress by Helga. Metallic brocade paisley design over gray silk animal print. Nipped waist with bow detail. Stunning construction...
Fulco di Verdura (1898–1978) is not exactly a household name, except for those who know a thing or two about highly original, often eccentric handcrafted earrings and bracelets, and, even more so, for those fortunate enough to own some. In that exclusive group, Verdura is regarded as the most gifted and coveted designer of his time.
Verdura was born in Sicily in 1898, the scion of a noble family related to the Lampedusas. (His cousin, Giuseppe di Lampedusa, wrote the great Italian saga The Leopard). His life was charmed from birth. Raised in his family’s villa, he grew up during a time when Sicily, and Palermo in particular, were meccas for well-born and highly cultured European travelers.
A bona fide duke with no clear ambitions but creative leanings aplenty (he could draw and paint), the young Verdura was part of the wandering social circuit — the so-called beau monde — that went from capital to capital, resort to resort.
Verdura, though small in stature, had that indefinable quality called charm. As a result, he was the life of every party he attended. When he finally started designing jewelry under Coco Chanel in the late 1920s, many of his friends became his clients (or received the pieces as gifts).
Elsa Maxwell took him under her ample wing when she was hired to do public relations for the Lido in Venice and introduced him to the local and visiting cognoscenti. Chanel, whom he met in Venice, hired him to work in the textiles division of her fashion house. But it was his flair for jewelry that soon caught Coco’s eye. Eventually, he rose to become her personal designer of fine jewelry.
In 2002’s Verdura: The Life and Work of a Master Jeweler (Thames & Hudson), Vanity Fair’s Amy Fine Collins describes the sensation of wearing pieces by Verdura, who drew inspiration from nature for his signature gem-studded seashell brooches and honeybee earrings.
“They were ingeniously calculated to flatter the wearer,” writes Collins. “Earrings undulated to complement the convolutions of an earlobe, rings seductively followed the phalanges of a finger, and necklaces gracefully traced the anatomy of the throat.”
In 1934, Verdura left Chanel and together with two friends, aspiring actress Princess Natalia Pavlovna Paley and Baron Nicholas de Gunzburg, moved to the U.S. After several stops, he found a job through Diana Vreeland in Hollywood with Paul Flato, then the “jeweler to the stars.” Soon he was signing his work and helping Flato cultivate the crème de la creme of the silver screen — those both on it and behind it.
Verdura left Los Angeles for New York and opened his own salon, first on Fifth Avenue in 1939, just as World War II was beginning in Europe. His backers were Vincent Astor and Cole Porter, for whom he made bejeweled boxes and cigarette cases — gifts from Porter’s wife, Linda — to commemorate the opening nights of several musicals.
Verdura began to expand both his repertoire — he became much more daring and flamboyant — and his clientele. The Duchess of Windsor, Daisy Fellowes, Greta Garbo and others routinely gave him commissions. In 1941, Verdura collaborated on a collection of six pieces with Salvador Dalí to accompany a Dalí exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art. Verdura retired in 1972 and left the care of the company to his partner, Joseph Alfano. He later moved to London, where he died in 1978 at the age of 79.
Among the most prized pieces on display in a 2014 Verdura jewelry exhibition in New York were Greta Garbo’s curb-link bracelet watch, which Verdura designed for her in 1939; Coco Chanel’s pair of Maltese Cross cuff bracelets (she wore one on each wrist); and Diana Vreeland’s duo of Byzantine brooches.
Find a range of vintage Verdura jewelry today on 1stDibs.
Vintage brooches, which refer to decorative jewelry traditionally pinned to garments and used to fasten pieces of clothing together where needed, have seen increasing popularity in recent years.
While jewelry trends come and go, brooches are indeed back on the radar thanks to fashion houses like Gucci, Versace, Dior and Saint Laurent, all of which feature fun pinnable designs in their current collections. Whether a dazzlingly naturalistic Art Nouveau dragonfly, a whimsical David Webb animal, a gem-studded bloom or a streamlined abstract design, these jewels add color and sparkle to your look and a spring to your step.
Given their long history, brooches have expectedly taken on a variety of different shapes and forms over time, with jewelers turning to assorted methods of ornamentation for these accessories, including enameling and the integration of pearls and gemstones. Cameo brooches that originated during the Victorian age are characterized by a shell carved in raised relief that feature portraits of a woman’s profile, while 19th-century micromosaic brooches, comprising innumerable individually placed glass fragments, sometimes feature miniature depictions of a pastoral scene in daily Roman life.
At one time, brooches were symbols of wealth, made primarily from the finest metals and showcasing exquisite precious gemstones. Today, these jewels are inclusive and universal, and you don’t have to travel very far to find an admirer of brooches. They can be richly geometric in form, such as the ornate diamond pins dating from the Art Deco era, or designer-specific, such as the celebrated naturalistic works created by Tiffany & Co., the milk glass and gold confections crafted by Trifari or handmade vintage Chanel brooches of silk or laminated sheer fabric. Chanel, of course, has never abandoned this style, producing gorgeously baroque CC examples since the 1980s.
Brooches are versatile and adaptable. These decorative accessories can be worn in your hair, on hats, scarves and on the lower point of V-neck clothing. Pin a dazzling brooch to the lapel of your blazer-and-tee combo or add a cluster of smaller pins to your overcoat. And while brooches have their place in “mourning jewelry,” in that a mourning brooch is representative of your connection to a lost loved one, they’re widely seen as romantic and symbolic of love, so much so that a hardcore brooch enthusiast might advocate for brooches to be worn over the heart.
Today, find a wide variety of antique and vintage brooches for sale on 1stDibs, including gold brooches, sapphire brooches and more.