Antique or Vintage Silver Brooch

[KevinM]

I purchased this a couple weeks ago from the TS, it's a rather large brooch that looks to me artist made (not factory).

The brooch is about 4" in length and there are 2 large heavy glass stones in the brooch that measure about 1" in height, 3/4" wide and about 3/8" thick.

I think it's made of sterling silver that has been gold washed or plated. There is a stamp on the back that I really can't make out but I think it may say "Sterling".

Does anyone know who may have made this brooch and when or what time period it might have been made?

Thanks!
Kevin

[KC]

What can you make out?

W--ing

[KevinM]

I think what I can make out is ST**LING but I'm not sure.

[mart]

Looks like Sterling to me !!

[KC]

I have looked at it soooo many ways and just don't see Sterling.  Are you near a reputable jeweler that can help you out?  Do you have a loupe?

[KevinM]

Don't know any jewelers, not really worth having checked out. I'm fairly certain the brooch is sterling gold washed. No real metal value. Just wanted mostly to get a feel for the age (time period) and perhaps a maker (know it's a long shot). I keep a a jewelers loop in the car and another in the house, always bring it with me to the Thrift Stores, and anywhere I might need it.

[AndrewCampbell]

Sterling silver is easy to notice by its stamp. If you are able to make out a word that says so, then I reckon it has to be it. It could probably, like you said, plated or gold washed which could have caused the fading or staining of the word stamp.