Such a pretty piece! popular Dramatic costume jewelry signed “Joseff Hollywood”! The company was founded by Eugene Joseff in 1928, originally as a venue to supply jewelry to Hollywood costumers and was primarily a costume jewelry company. They specialized in historical and period style pieces. Joseff, it is said, started his company because he was disappointed with the inaccuracy of jewelry in period films. The dark metal finish of this piece is typical of this designer's jewelry: the darker matte finish looked antique, worked well in film lighting, and didn't cause a glare or react to flashes of light.
This piece is neo-classical in style, probably made in the 1940s. Its style is reminiscent of the mid-19th Century (think hoop skirts and Gone with the Wind). It is made with tiny loops to attach it to a chain of various lengths, or to a ribbon choker or silk scarf threaded through the side loops. It could also be adapted as a brooch.
The metal appliqués of small flowers, beaded and laurel wreath designs, show slight variations in their detail suggesting they were hand-cut and applied. The base metal is metallic gold color. The oval cut stone is likely cut glass, but I have not had it tested. Its beautiful sapphire blue color is lovely as the light moves within it. The maker mostly used glass in their quality pieces, designed and cut to look like real gems.
Approximate size:
1 7/8” Length x 1 1/2” Width x 1”Depth, weighs .8 oz.
Condition: Good to Very Good Vintage
Product code: Signed popular Joseff Hollywood Vintage Pendant with Beautiful Blue Faceted Oval Stone, Circa 1940,