Regency Butterfly Brooch Value Guide

The Regency Butterfly Brooch is a premier example of mid-century American costume jewelry, crafted by the New York-based firm Regency Jewels. This piece is highly collectible due to its signature use of high-quality molded art glass and the elaborate stone settings that defined the brand's presence in luxury department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue.

What Is Regency Butterfly Brooch Worth?

The typical price range for Regency Butterfly Brooch is $135 - $150 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the molded glass, as chips or cracks in the butterfly elements significantly reduce market value.
• Presence of the original 'Regency' signature, which commands a premium over unsigned attributed pieces.
• Clarity and brilliance of the amber rhinestones, ensuring no 'dead' or darkened stones are present.
• The integrity of the gold-tone finish, with higher values for pieces showing minimal metal wear or oxidation.

How to Identify Regency Butterfly Brooch?

• Look for the 'REGENCY' hallmark stamped in block letters on the reverse of the gold-tone setting.
• Examine the butterfly wings for the specific texture of molded art glass rather than simple flat stones.
• Verify the presence of high-quality amber rhinestones, which should be prong-set rather than glued.
• Check for the characteristic heavy gold-tone plating typical of Polkowitz and Regal designs from the 1950s.

History of Regency Butterfly Brooch

Regency Jewels was a mid-century costume jewelry brand founded by Polkowitz and Regal in New York City during the 1950s. Known for their high-quality stones and elaborate designs, Regency pieces often featured aurora borealis rhinestones and unique molded glass elements like the butterflies seen here. The company specialized in high-end costume jewelry sold in department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue.