Elizabeth Prior Sterling 14K Gold Blue Topaz Modernist Brooch Pendant c. 1990s

Measurements: 1.75"L x .9"W x .4"Thick (4.45cm x 2.28cm x 1.02cm)

Markings: EP 925 14k

Weight: 7.5g

A refined and beautifully sculptural modernist brooch by designer Elizabeth Prior, crafted in sterling silver with 14K yellow gold and a bezel-set blue topaz, dating to approximately the 1990s.

The design is based on a softly arched rectangular form, giving the piece a subtle architectural presence while remaining elegant and highly wearable. The sterling surface is divided between polished and matte finishes, creating a sophisticated contrast of texture and light across the face of the brooch.

Running vertically through the composition is an abstract ribbon of 14K yellow gold, its irregular organic line suggesting the movement of a river or fissure through the silver plane. Near the upper portion, a luminous blue topaz is set within a 14K gold bezel, adding a cool flash of color against the warm gold and bright sterling.

The result is a beautifully balanced composition of geometry and organic movement—minimalist in overall form, yet rich in surface detail and material contrast.

The reverse is finished in polished sterling silver and the brooch is marked EP 925 14K. It has recently been professionally polished and presents beautifully. Any dark lines or unusual marks visible in the photographs are reflections from the highly polished surfaces rather than condition issues.

For added versatility, a converter is included so the brooch may also be worn as a pendant.

An elegant example of late-20th-century American studio jewelry, especially appealing to collectors of modernist design, mixed-metal jewelry, and sculptural wearable art.

About the designer courtesy of her website: The first jewelry I remember making was with twist ties that came with sandwich bags before they were the fold over type. I stripped the paper off the wires and replaced it with little sleeves made from paper that I had colored, to my specifications, with either crayons or colored pencils and cellophane tape. I stored the wires and their interchangeable covers in a matchbox that I’m certain I lined and covered in some fashion, though I don’t remember exactly how. I was not, at the time, allowed to wear earrings and I did not have pierced ears so I just squeezed these make-shift hoops onto my ear lobes while riding the bus to school, selecting the paper sleeves to cover the wires that matched whatever outfit I was wearing to fourth grade that day. It wasn't about having earrings to wear. It was the making that I loved. Experience: Designer / Jeweler / Metalsmith, Portland, ME, 1987-present. Professional craftsperson, designing, producing and marketing original work thru juried national wholesale / retail events , local and online markets. Fore River Gallery, Portland, ME 2012 - present. Partner in four person co-op gallery.9 Hands Gallery, Portland, ME, 2007-2012. Founder and Partner of 3-5 person co-op gallery, noted in local press for unique business plan and administrative practices. Instructor, Portland, ME, 1987-present. Teaching individuals and classes in my studio, at Maine College of Art, Portland Pottery, Haystack Mountain School, Phoenix Glass Studio, and Metal Kitchen, NYC Manager, Charlotte's, NYC, 1984-1987, a premier catering and event planning company Assistant Manager, Handcrafters Gallery, Portland, ME 1982-1984, (presently Abacus)Education: BFA, Maine College of Art, Portland, ME, 1982, Jewelry / Metals, Dean's list, recipient of Doris Dean Scholarship and Eudolia Gross Award for Outstanding Achievement and Contribution of Self. Penland School of Crafts, Penland, NC, 1978-1980, Eight week Concentration in Metals, three summer sessions in Sculpture University of Maine, Orono, ME, 1974-1978, art major, liberal arts studies Continuing Education: Haystack Mountain School of Crafts, Deer Isle, ME, 1987 & 2004. Three week session in metals and two week session in lampworking. Weekend workshops in metals and fibers. Parsons School of Design, New York, NY, 1983. Jewelry Rendering and Illustration Publications: Editorial Coverage in the following periodicals: Jewelers Circular Keystone, Metalsmith, Cigar Aficionado, Glamour, Ornament, Bead and Button, Maine Boats, Homes & Harbors.