J.E. Caldwell Art Deco diamond butterfly brooch

This exquisite butterfly brooch by J.E. Caldwell is a masterwork of Art Deco jewelry design, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and luxurious materials. The piece is made in platinum and features a striking combination of opals, emeralds, diamonds, and black enamel. The wings are adorned with luminous white opals at the top and fiery black opals at the bottom, their vivid play-of-color adding movement and life to the design. Accents of rich black enamel provide bold contrast and outline the wing segments, enhancing the sculptural detail. The body of the butterfly sparkles with a central kite shaped diamond accented by smaller round and baguette cut diamonds, The wings are framed with brilliant and baguette cut diamonds that catch and reflect the light with every angle. Subtle touches of green emeralds on the outer edges complete the palette, adding a fresh burst of color. This brooch is a stunning example of J.E. Caldwell’s legacy of elegance, innovation, and opulent beauty.

J.E. Caldwell & Co. was a prestigious American jewelry firm founded in 1839 in Philadelphia by James Emmot Caldwell. Renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and refined design, the firm quickly gained a reputation as one of the most important jewelers in the United States. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, J.E. Caldwell became especially well known for its Art Nouveau and later Art Deco pieces, often incorporating innovative techniques and luxurious materials such as platinum, diamonds, opals, and enamel.

Caldwell was not only a retail jeweler but also a manufacturer, creating exquisite timepieces, silverware, and custom jewelry. The firm served elite clientele and was a favored jeweler for high society in Philadelphia and beyond. Notably, it was one of the few American firms invited to exhibit at international expositions, including the 1876 Centennial Exposition and the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris.

Their Art Deco era creations—like the butterfly brooch shown, highlight the firm’s flair for geometric precision, colored gemstones, and symmetrical elegance. Today, vintage and antique J.E. Caldwell pieces are highly sought after by collectors for their historic significance and enduring beauty.

Item Details

• Materials: Diamonds, Opals, Emeralds, Onyx
• Length: 1/2 inches
• Width: 1 5/8 inches
• Number of Stones: 68
• Condition: Excellent
• Singed: JEC & CO 14679
• Circa: Art Deco

Primary Stone(s)

• Type: Diamond
• Total Carat Weight: 2.86
• Cut/Shape: round, Baguette, trapezoid, kite
• Color: FG
• Clarity: VS

Accent Stone(s)

• Type: Opal
• Number of Stones: 4
• Total Carat Weight: NA
• Cut/Shape: Custom
• Color: white & black

Accent Stone(s)

• Type: Emerald
• Number of Stones: 9
• Total Carat Weight: NA
• Cut/Shape: Custom sugarloaf cabochon
• Color: Vivid green