Maltese Cross pendant of gold tone, rhinestones, amber glass. 1960s. Signed Expan Vintage Costume Jewelry
Signed Expan Vintage Costume Jewelry (1947-1992)
The history of the American costume jewelry brand Expan began on August 19, 1947 and lasted for more than four decades. Founded by the company EXPANDED METAL IN SHEET FORM AND/OR PARTLY FABRICATED SHAPES, and renewed in 1971, the “Expan.” trademark ceased to exist in November 1992.
The classic design of the jewelry includes stylized floral motifs, Maltese crosses, maple leaves, oak leaves, starfish and swirls. Thanks to the skill of the jewelers and the use of high-quality materials, the jewelry has stood the test of time. Traditional materials in the manufacture of jewelry were 14k gold, gold and silver-tone metal alloys, art glass imitating natural stones, Aurora Borealis rhinestones, and artificial pearls.
The marking of the jewelry on the oval cartouche includes the word “Expan” with a dot at the end. Rare on the vintage jewelry market, Expan pieces are collector’s items.
Flower brooch. Aurora borealis rhinestones, gold tone alloy. 1950s
Maker’s mark
Signed Expan Vintage Costume Jewelry
Four-leaf clover brooch of gold tone, blue beads, Aurora borealis rhinestones
Gold tone wire star fish design brooch pin. 1960s
Heraldic greek coin gold plated brooch pendant
Leaf open work gold tone brooch pin. 1980s
Maple leaf 10 K gold plated clip on earrings
Oak leaf textured gold tone brooch pin. 1970s
Silver and gold tone flower brooch pin. 1980s
Sunburst brooch pin of gold tone, Aurora borealis rhinestone
Swirl design brooch pin of gold tone, faux pearls, rhinestones
Twisted rope Maltese cross brooch pin
Maker’s mark
