Vintage 12K Gold Filled Topaz Brooch Pendant Lot Winard Carla USA c1950s-60s

Five-piece vintage 12K gold-filled Topaz brooch and pendant collection, USA made, c1950s-60s.

A particularly attractive vintage collection of five substantial 12K gold-filled brooches/pendants, each set with a large faceted brown Topaz gemstone. The pieces have a beautiful warm, slightly rose-gold vintage colour rather than a brassy yellow, with several different decorative gold-filled settings including rope, scalloped, and Greek Key designs.

The group has a remarkably cohesive look and would make an excellent collection for a vintage jewellery enthusiast, collector or someone looking for several coordinating pieces from the same era.

All five gemstones have tested as Topaz on a Presidium Gem Tester.

The lot comprises:

1. Winard 12K Gold Filled Oval Topaz Brooch/Pendant

Sawtooth-set oval, multifaceted brown Topaz in an ornate scalloped rim setting.

Signed WINARD 12K GF.

Approx. 3.6 x 2.8 cm.

2. Carla 12K Gold Filled Topaz Brooch/Pendant

Multifaceted brown Topaz in a bezel setting with an attractive Greek Key-style decorative rim.

Signed CARLA 12K GF.

Approx. 3.5 x 2.5 cm.

3. Unmarked 12K Gold Filled Topaz Brooch/Pendant

Oval multifaceted brown Topaz in a sawtooth beaded setting with an ornate scalloped rim.

I have not located a maker's mark with a loupe, however the piece has the appearance and construction of the vintage gold-filled pieces in this collection.

Approx. 3.5 x 2.5 cm.

4. L'FI 12K Gold Filled Topaz Brooch/Pendant

Oval multifaceted brown Topaz in an attractive rope-style rim setting.

Signed L'FI and 12K GF.

Approx. 3.0 x 2.5 cm.

5. Winard 12K Gold Filled Rectangular Topaz Pendant

Large rectangular multifaceted brown Topaz in a claw setting.

Signed WINARD 12K GF.

Approx. 2.8 x 2.0 cm.

Details

c1950s-1960s vintage
USA-made vintage gold-filled jewellery
12K gold filled
Five pieces included
All gemstones tested as Topaz on a Presidium Gem Tester
Total weight: 46.3 grams
• Beautiful warm, slightly rosy vintage gold colour
• All pieces have pendant loops and/or brooch fittings as shown
• Attractive faceted gemstones with good light reflection
• Sold as one collection only – pieces will not be separated

Please study all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description. These are vintage pieces and may show minor age-related marks or signs of previous wear consistent with their age.

A lovely opportunity to acquire a coordinated group of substantial vintage 12K gold-filled Topaz jewellery, including signed Winard and Carla examples.

A particularly attractive collection for the vintage jewellery collector.




Brown topaz, often overshadowed by more popular gemstones, presents a unique combination of aesthetic appeal and versatile applications. This gemstone emerges not only as a stunning addition to jewelry but also as a significant player in holistic practices. As we navigate through the properties, uses, and significance of brown topaz, we uncover a narrative woven into the fabric of geology, history, and human experience.

Gemstone Overview

Description of the gemstone

Brown topaz is a variety of topaz that is recognized for its warm and earthy tones, ranging from light yellow-brown to deep chocolate shades. This gemstone is primarily composed of aluminum silicate fluoride hydroxide, making it a fascinating example of nature's craftsmanship. Unlike its more famous counterparts, such as blue or imperial topaz, brown topaz often escapes public attention despite its distinctive beauty.

Physical properties

The physical properties of brown topaz are equally remarkable. On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, it scores an impressive 8, placing it among the tougher gemstones. Its transparency can vary, but many brown topaz pieces exhibit clarity that allows for captivating light play when cut effectively. Additionally, the gemstone can present pleochroism, revealing different colors when viewed from different angles.

Healing Properties

Metaphysical attributes

In the realm of metaphysical healing, brown topaz is often associated with grounding energy and stability. Practitioners believe it encourages self-confidence and a sense of security, aiding individuals in manifesting their intentions. This gemstone is thought to promote emotional healing and enhance one's ability to cope with stress and anxiety.

Common uses in holistic practices

Brown topaz is commonly used in various holistic practices. Here are a few notable applications:

"Brown topaz serves as a reminder of the beauty in simplicity, making it a wise addition to both collections and personal practices."

Exploring the properties and significance of brown topaz reveals a world of intrigue and utility. From its geological characteristics to its applications in jewelry design and healing practices, brown topaz stands out as a multifaceted gemstone worthy of recognition. As we delve deeper into this subject, it's clear that brown topaz deserves its place alongside more celebrated stones, showcasing the wonders of nature and the human connection to these remarkable minerals.

Prelims to Brown Topaz

Brown topaz is often overlooked compared to its more vivid counterparts. It holds a unique appeal that deserves attention in various spheres—jewelry, geology, and holistic practices. Understanding brown topaz involves delving into its fundamental properties, origins, and applications. This section sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the gemstone.

Vintage and Antique gold-filled jewellery explained

If you love vintage jewellery you may have come across the name gold-filled. But what exactly does it mean and why is vintage and antique gold-filled jewellery so special, wearable and collectible? Unlike gold plating, gold-filled jewellery offers lasting durability. This makes it a fantastic alternative to solid gold and at a fraction of the price. Gold-filled jewellery is almost exclusively USA designed and made notwithstanding a small number of offshoot makers who were located in Canada. The majority of vintage and antique gold-filled jewellery came from the many jewellery makers and workshops located in Rhode Island. 

Gold-filled jewellery must have at least 5% solid gold by weight which was required by law in the USA since 1907 whilst gold-plated jewellery more than likely contains less than 0.05%. Gold-filled pieces maintain their appearance for decades, even centuries, but gold-plated ones do not. Gold-filled jewellery was made by bonding a thick layer of solid gold usually 10, 12 or 14k to a base metal. High quality gold-filled pieces give the appearance of solid gold.

Not all pieces are hallmarked especially pre 1900s items and some makers such as Krementz or RJ Simmonds went on to simply display the gold content in the presentation box. Later hallmarks are typically 1/20 10k 12k or 14k GF.

Similar solid gold pieces are generally priced 4 to 7 times higher than genuine gold-filled ones. 

Beware of modern jewellery pieces coming out of Asia masquerading as gold filled and of an inferior quality which possess minimal gold content and are mass produced and cheap.