Coro Bird Brooch Value Guide

This Coro Bird Brooch is a quintessential example of mid-century American costume jewelry, reflecting the iconic designs of Emanuel Cohn and Gerald Rosenberg. Crafted between 1940 and 1955, these bird motifs allowed post-war consumers to enjoy the aesthetic of fine jewelry through gold-plated base metals and vibrant glass stones.

What affects the value of Coro Bird Brooch?

• Condition of the gold plating, as excessive wear or 'brassing' can lower the value below the $45 ceiling.
• Clarity and security of the rhinestones, specifically checking for chips in the large purple faceted body.
• Presence of the original 'Coro' signature, which is vital for distinguishing it from generic period bird pins.
• The functionality of the original pin back and clasp, which must be intact for maximum collector interest.

How to Identify Coro Bird Brooch?

• Check the reverse side for the 'Coro' hallmark, typically stamped in script or block letters.
• Verify the materials are gold-plated base metal rather than solid gold, consistent with 1940s production.
• Examine the stones to ensure the large faceted purple rhinestone body and small green eye are original glass settings.
• Look for the specific pin mechanism style common to the 1940-1955 era to confirm the production window.

History of Coro Bird Brooch

Coro was one of the most prolific and popular costume jewelry manufacturers in America. Founded in New York in 1901 by Emanuel Cohn and Gerald Rosenberg, the company peaked during the mid-20th century. Their bird motifs, particularly those from the 1940s and 1950s, became iconic staples of affordable wartime and post-war fashion, often utilizing gold-plated base metals and vibrant glass rhinestones to mimic fine jewelry.