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Antique Ostby & Barton Titanic Era 10K Yellow Gold Art Nouveau Ruby Brooch Pin. Condition is Pre-owned - Excellent.
Up for sale is a beautiful, highly collectible piece of American jewelry history. This authentic turn-of-the-century Art Nouveau bar brooch features an elegant open-work geometric wireframe heavily influenced by the German Jugendstil style. The delicate frame features sand-cast leaf ornamentations flanking a vibrant, prong-set central ruby (period-correct simulated gemstone).
The brooch retains its original, crisp hallmarks stamped clearly on the safety barrel clasp mechanism: "10K" alongside the coveted "O-B" rectangular cartouche of Ostby & Barton.
Historical Significance:
Ostby & Barton (founded in 1879) is one of the most historically significant American jewelry manufacturers. Co-founder Engelhart Cornelius Ostby famously perished aboard the RMS Titanic in 1912 while returning from a jewelry-buying trip in Europe. Pieces bearing the "O-B" mark from this era are highly sought after by historical collectors and antique jewelry enthusiasts alike.
Condition:
Excellent antique condition. The 10K yellow gold wireframe shows minimal wear, remaining structurally sound with beautiful natural aging. The pin stem is straight, and the period-correct safety locking mechanism functions smoothly and securely. Please review the high-magnification macro photos for a detailed look at the condition and hallmarks.
