This is a rare 1940s sterling silver Jelly Belly bird brooch, featuring a clear Lucite belly, vibrant colored rhinestones, and intricate craftsmanship. The brooch is stamped STERLING on the reverse and reflects the whimsical yet refined jewelry style of the World War II era.
The charming bird has a blue rhinestone eye, clear rhinestones along its wing, and perches gracefully on a branch adorned with a flower set with red, green, and clear rhinestones. The Lucite “belly” is beautifully domed and transparent, a hallmark of authentic Jelly Belly pieces.
Many Jelly Belly pieces were crafted from Lucite repurposed from airplane canopy material — shaped, polished, and set into sterling silver. These imaginative brooches became symbols of postwar optimism and remain highly sought after by collectors today.
This would be a wonderful addition to any vintage jewelry collection or a thoughtful gift for a lover of mid-century design.
📏 Measurements
Length: 1 3/4 Inches
Width: 2 Inches
Weight: 0.4 Ounce
🧾 Condition
Great vintage condition with age-appropriate patina. Possible light wear to vermeil (gold wash) finish. All rhinestones intact and Lucite clear. See photos for details.
🪶 Hallmark
Stamped STERLING on reverse.
📚 Reference
According to Warman’s Costume Jewelry, p. 212:
“To be a true Jelly Belly, the center must be clear Lucite, not glass or colored plastic. Many of the Lucite components used in the 1940s were shaped from airplane canopy rejects polished to a high gloss and set into sterling silver.” *Item E3626
