Italian immigrant Francisco Tortolani founded Mastercraft Jewelry Company in Providence, Rhode Island before WWII. Tortolani jewelry was conceived after the war and a relocation to California. The original designs were produced until 1976.
Tortolani's jewelry had a distinctive look -- metals were often anodized (blackened). It was always hand cast, polished and finished in real gold or silver plate. Themes were organic / botanical. Pieces big and bold. Rhinestones were rarely used and other materials, sparingly. Faux pearls added character to selected pieces and glass beads offered a bit of color to others. The brooch and earrings set presented circa 1960s, featuring textured gold tone veins, is unusual in it's liberal use of both simulated pearls and faux jade (green peking glass) beads.

The demi includes the brooch, at approximately 2 3/8 inches x 1 7/8 inches with a 3/8 inch profile. Matching clip earrings are about 1 1/8 inches x 15/16 inch. Largest peking glass beads and imitation pearls are approximately 6 millimeters. Weight of the brooch and earring set is about 46 grams.

Condition is excellent vintage. All components intact. Faux pearls retain nacre and luster with minimal wear. All green glass beads intact with no chips, nicks, cracks, or breaks. Gold tone finish intact, with signature anodized or blackened finish, more prominent in reverses. All soldering secure. No dents or improper bends. Pin shaft has slight bend not affecting function -- mechanism strong and secure. Earrings clips tight and secure. Clean. No damage / no repairs. Other than age appropriate patina and minimal wear -- excellent vintage condition .

Reverse of brooch is signed in an oblong cartouche in signature script "Tortolani", copyright symbol preceding. Reverse of one earring body is signed in an oblong cartouche in familiar script: "Tortolani", copyright symbol preceding. Design, style, materials, construction and overall presentation, in conjunction with the signature and position of copyright symbol date this set circa 1960s.

Tortolani. All in the Family. At Cody's.

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