Superb Betty Cooke Signed 14K Gold 3D Geometric Modernist Brooch Pendant Circa 1960s

Measurements:  2"L x 1.6"W x .5"Thick (5.08cm x 4.06cm x 1.27cm)

Markings: Cooke 14k

Weight: 15.5g

A superb and highly sculptural signed Betty Cooke 14K yellow gold convertible brooch/pendant, featuring the bold geometry and architectural construction that define Cooke’s most compelling modernist work.

Composed entirely of warm 14K yellow gold, the design is built from a complex arrangement of intersecting rectangular planes and raised box-like forms. Several elements fold upward from the composition, creating dramatic changes in height and perspective, while others appear to float outward from the central structure. Viewed from different angles, the piece continually changes — almost like a miniature modernist sculpture.

The restrained satin/brushed finish emphasizes form rather than ornament, allowing light to move softly across the gold surfaces and accentuating the extraordinary three-dimensional construction. Negative space becomes an important part of the composition, giving this substantial piece an unexpectedly airy architectural quality.

The reverse reveals just how sophisticated the construction is, with individual gold planes joined into a carefully engineered framework. It is fitted with both a secure brooch mechanism and concealed pendant bails, allowing the piece to be worn either as a dramatic brooch or suspended from a chain.

The piece is hand signed COOKE and marked 14K.

This brooch/pendant was acquired from Rago Wright as part of a group cataloged as jewelry by Betty Cooke. Rago described the lot as containing two 14K pendant brooches together with additional Cooke jewelry and noted that three examples in the group were signed Cooke. The dimensions of this piece correspond closely with the larger 14K pendant/brooch documented in the auction catalog.

A remarkable example of Betty Cooke’s approach to wearable sculpture — geometric, dimensional, minimalist and unmistakably architectural.