Composition: gold-plated metal, marcasite Condition: very good Dimensions (brooch): 5.5 x 3.2 cm Measurements (earrings): 3.3 cm Color: gold, black Marking: "JJ" (in triangles) Period: 1983-1987 Market value: 120-160 EUR
Judith and her husband Jack Rosenberg founded Judith Jack in New York in 1969. Judith Jack's distinctive style and quality have made her the leading marcasite jewelry brand, earning her the nickname "Queen of Marcasite in the United States." From day one, the artisans have used semi-precious stones, natural pearls, silver, and marcasite. Marcasite shines like a tiny diamond. The jewelry line includes Victorian, Edwardian, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and retro-style earrings, brooches, pendants, rings, and bracelets. Some pieces are limited edition and come at a premium. Judith Jack jewelry is marked with a double JJ in a triangle. The shape of the brooch is unique - two turtles, symbolizing "mother and child," "travel," and "safety." This jewelry dates back to around 1980-1990, when the Judith Jack brand became popular for its marcasite designs and classic Art Deco-inspired style. Such brooches sell for 100–150 EUR, while earrings usually sell for 50–70 EUR.
Since both the earrings and the tortoise brooch have identical markings and the same surface texture and color finish (matte gold with oxidized black marcasite inlay), it can be argued that this is an original set from the same edition – likely from Judith Jack's "Animal Series" or "Heritage" collections, which were produced around 1982–1987.
