Go back
Go back

Ruby and Turquoise

Vintage turquoise ruby bug brooch 18k gold | Mara Megelea
Marquise turquoise cabochon bug brooch detail | Mara Megelea
Whimsical bug brooch worn 18k yellow gold vintage | Mara Megelea
Turquoise ruby insect brooch side view estate jewelry | Mara Megelea

Bug Brooch - Previously Owned

CHF 2'950
Regular price CHF 2'950

A whimsical bug brooch crafted in 18k yellow gold with 12 marquise cut turquoise cabochons and ruby eyes.

This pre-owned brooch weighs 10.70 grams and features 12 natural turquoise cabochons in marquise cut, complemented by deep red ruby eyes. The secure pin mechanism includes a safety catch to prevent loss or damage. Professionally inspected and authenticated.

MATERIALS & CRAFTSMANSHIP

  • 18k yellow gold
  • 12 marquise cut natural turquoise cabochons
  • Round brilliant ruby eyes (deep red)
  • Total weight: 10.70 grams
  • Pin mechanism with safety catch
  • Professionally inspected and authenticated
  • Prepared and shipped from Switzerland

Preserved craftsmanship, ready for its next chapter.

GOLD 18K Yellow Gold
Ships in 3–5 Days

Specifications

The brooch is set with 12 marquise cut cabochons natural turquoises. The eyes are set with rubies of deep, intense red.

At the back, there is a pin mechanism with a catch to prevent any loss or damage.

The precision of the details, the quality of the gemstones, and the craftsmanship make this piece truly unique.
18K Yellow Gold, Total weight: 10.70 grams.

Why We Love The Bug Brooch

From the 1950s, this delicate 18K yellow gold brooch is an extremely rare estate piece.

Its shell is set with 12 sky blue natural turquoises from the famous Sleeping Beauty mine in Arizona (USA). Their color is untreated and remarkably even with no white veins. The eyes are set with rubies of deep, intense red.

It is truly a unique and fascinating piece.

Sleeping Beauty Turquoise

The Sleeping Beauty mine in Globe, Arizona, was renowned for producing the world's finest turquoise before closing in 2012. Sleeping Beauty turquoise is prized for:

  • Pure sky blue color: No green undertones or matrix
  • Exceptional clarity: No white veins or brown matrix
  • Even color: Remarkably consistent throughout
  • Rarity: No longer mined, making existing pieces increasingly valuable

The 12 turquoises in this brooch display the classic Sleeping Beauty characteristics—pure, untreated sky blue with no veining.

1950s Estate Jewelry

This brooch represents the golden age of mid-century jewelry design. The 1950s saw a return to delicate, feminine designs after the bold Art Deco era. Insect motifs—particularly bugs and butterflies—were popular themes, symbolizing transformation and natural beauty.

Design Details

  • 1950s vintage creation
  • 18K yellow gold construction
  • 12 natural Sleeping Beauty turquoises (untreated)
  • Ruby eyes in deep, intense red
  • Delicate, feminine design
  • Extremely rare estate piece

Why This Brooch Is Special

Untreated Turquoise
Most turquoise on the market today is stabilized or treated. These natural, untreated Sleeping Beauty turquoises are increasingly rare and valuable.

Mine Closure
The Sleeping Beauty mine closed in 2012, making existing pieces with this turquoise more collectible each year.

Historical Significance
As a 1950s estate piece, this brooch is over 70 years old—a wearable piece of jewelry history.

Collecting Vintage Brooches

Vintage brooches from the 1950s are experiencing renewed popularity. They can be worn on:

  • Lapels and blazers
  • Scarves and shawls
  • Hats and berets
  • Handbags and clutches
  • As hair accessories

Perfect For

  • Vintage jewelry collectors
  • Turquoise enthusiasts
  • Those seeking unique, conversation-piece jewelry
  • Appreciators of mid-century design
  • Sustainable jewelry choices

Contact us to learn more about this exceptional 1950s bug brooch.

Payments Plans

Installment payments are available for Swiss residents, with 0% interest on purchases up to CHF 5,000 at checkout. For higher-value pieces, please contact us to arrange a personalized payment plan.

Each project comes to life through the hands of 5 to 7 master Swiss artisans, each specialized in their craft. From the precision of our Lapidary and Gemologist to the artistry of our Foundry, Bench Jeweler, Setter, Engraver, and Jewelry Designer, every step is a blend of expertise and dedication.