Vtg Carnagie Piranha Set. CSBH

Rare 1960s Hattie Carnegie "Piranha" Demi-Parure – Faux Jade & Gold-Tone Fish Brooch with Matching Shell Earrings – Iconic Kenneth Jay Lane Design

Description

The Set: An exceptional and highly collectible vintage jewelry set featuring the famous "Piranha" (or "Ferocious Fish") figural brooch and its matching stylized shell clip-on earrings. Released circa 1968, this set was created during the tenure of Kenneth Jay Lane as head designer for the House of Carnegie.

Materials & Artistry:

• "Poured" Faux Jade: Both pieces feature signature marbled green and cream Lucite inserts, expertly crafted to mimic the depth and translucency of fine jadeite.

• Whimsical Detail: The fish is detailed with bulging red rhinestone "pop" eyes, a playful hallmark of Carnegie’s animal figurals.

• Fine Gilt Work: The set is cast in heavy gold-plated metal with a distinct "ribbed" or brushed texture that captures the light beautifully.

• Premium Construction: The brooch features high-quality open "cage" construction on the reverse, a hallmark of boutique costume jewelry that allows light to pass through the resin.

Condition & Provenance:

• Attribution: While this specific late-60s series was famously sold with paper hang tags and is unsigned, it is a well-documented "Book Piece" featured in authoritative guides like Kathy Flood’s Costume Jewelry Figurals.

• Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The gold plating is vibrant with no significant wear, and all mechanisms (pin and earring clips) are secure and functional.

Specifications

• Era: Mid-Century Modern (Circa 1968)

• Designer: Kenneth Jay Lane for Hattie Carnegie

• Type: Demi-Parure (Brooch & Earrings)

• Colorway: Green/Cream Marbled Jade and Brushed Gold