Kinetic Brooch

Fridl M. Blumenthal, Kinetic Brooch, ca. 1990, 18k gold, chrysoprase cabochons, and baroque pearl, 2 ⁷⁄₈ x 2 ¹⁄₄ x ¹⁄₄ in. (7.4 x 5.9 x .5 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the artist in memory of her husband, Bernhard Blumenthal, 1994.116, © 1990, Fridl M. Blumenthal

Artwork Details

Title: Kinetic Brooch
Artist: Fridl M. Blumenthal
Date: ca. 1990
Location: Not on view
Dimensions: 2 ⁷⁄₈ x 2 ¹⁄₄ x ¹⁄₄ in. (7.4 x 5.9 x .5 cm.)
Copyright: © 1990, Fridl M. Blumenthal
Credit Line: Gift of the artist in memory of her husband, Bernhard Blumenthal
Mediums: gold
pearl
chrysoprase
Mediums Description: 18k gold, chrysoprase cabochons, and baroque pearl
Classifications: Decorative Arts
Object Number: 1994.116
Linked Open Data: https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1994.116

Artwork Description

Fridl Blumenthal says that “the stone tells me what to do with it.” Kinetic Brooch is made with chrysoprase, a rare quartz known for its bright green color and waxy luster, qualities that are emphasized by the rounded “cabochon” cut. The title comes from the design, which allows the cabochons to be repositioned along their V-shaped track, changing the design of the brooch according to the wishes of the wearer.