Antique Whiteside & Balnk 14k Iridescent Enamel Orchid Brooch

About This Brooch:

This exquisite late Victorian Orchid brooch by Whiteside & Blank features delicate pink, green, and yellow iridescent enamel that captures the flower’s natural beauty. At its crown sits a sparkling Old European cut diamond. The enamel’s pristine condition suggests it was rarely, if ever, worn, preserving its original charm.

Whiteside & Blank was a distinguished jewelry manufacturer based in Newark, New Jersey. Originally founded as N.E. Whiteside & Co. in 1890; in 1899, the company was renamed Whiteside & Blank. They were one of the few American firms to master the rare plique-à-jour enameling technique and became known for their exceptional craftsmanship. During the company's early years, they produced exquisitely crafted 14K gold brooches, scarf pins, sleeve buttons, studs, and bracelets, many beautifully accented with enamel. Whiteside & Blank also manufactured jewelry for prestigious retailers including Tiffany & Co., Neiman Marcus, Grant A. Peacock, and other prominent jewelry houses. Today, their pieces are highly sought after for their artistry, quality, and historical significance.

 

Condition:

The brooch remains in nearly perfect antique condition, with minimal enamel wear and a gentle patina on the gold that enhances its antique character.

 

Details:

Materials: Tests as 14K.

Dimensions: 27.9 mm x 25.5 mm x 10.2 mm

Weight: 6.6 grams

Maker: Whiteside & Blank

Era: Victorian, circa late 1890s to early 1900s (approximate)

Old European Cut Diamond:

     Diameter: 3.2 mm to 3.3 mm

     Color: J

     Clarity: I to SI (Eye Clean)

     Estimated Total Weight: 0.13 ct

 

Please note that when evaluated with alternate methods, including XRF, vintage, antique, and pre-owned jewelry may read slightly below the stated purity due to variations in alloy composition, manufacturing tolerances, the presence of other materials, solder, bloomed surfaces, or past repairs. This piece may read anywhere from 12K to 13.9K. Stones have been graded, assessed, and measured in their settings; evaluations are limited to what the setting permits. Treatments, if present, may not always be detectable. All details, including weights and dimensions, are approximate. Item color may vary slightly from photos due to differences in lighting and screen settings. Any stated circa dates are based on stylistic and manufacturing characteristics and should be considered approximate.