Wizard Pin by JJ Jonette: from the 1980's, Large, Bronze Color

JJ Jonette made wonderful jewelry. They rarely used precious stones or metals, but always made quality products with great detail & humor.

This is a large pin from the 1980s that shows a wizard (some call him Merlin) gazing into his crystal ball. There are 7 tiny rhinestones on his hat along with an iridescent half sphere cabochon. The details on this are fantastic. The pin was made in either pewter or this bronze version. There are a lot more of the silvery pewter ones available than the bronze. I had a machinist, who has worked with lots of metals, look at this pin and he told me it is not plated pewter, but either cast bronze or brass.

I don't know where this guy has been for 40+ years, but he has built up an impressive amount of "patina". I have not cleaned him as I think he is more impressive in the dark stage than he would be all shined up. As with any vintage jewelry, the owner & wearer needs to take special care of this piece, especially the clasp.

Clearly the Wizard would make an excellent cloak pin. He is 4" tall by about 2.25" wide and is heavy for a pin, weighing in at 2.25 oz. Made in USA. Dragon not included.