Mystery pin - where did they use this clasp?

[evelyb30]

frontblack

I'm not going to bother asking who, just where and when?  I could swear I've seen that clasp before, but don't know where.  The silver content rules out the US, and the lack of marks more or less rules out Mexico.  

[takingbackmycloset]

Maybe kilt-style pin?

[old.crows.nest]

I have been trying to remember what the pin assembly reminds me of. I think it might be Chinese. I have some lightweight enamelled Panda Pins with similar pins. Will see if I can find an example listed.

[old.crows.nest]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-PANDA-BEAR-Pin-Brooch-Dangle-Charm-Signed-Gold-Tone-Enamel-CWCA-Bamb...

[evelyb30]

Do the Chinese work in 950 silver? I don't recall seeing any before.

[old.crows.nest]

When I think 950 Silver and Inlay like this I think Mexico but not this pinback. Here is a list that shows Silver Standard by Country:

http://www.925-1000.com/a_Standards.html

[takingbackmycloset]

I doubt the Chinese work in 950 but that's a guess on my part.  They simply take a 925 shank and attach it to a ring, poorly at that. Here is an example of their fine work in sterling. I keep this ring to remind myself to never, ever buy from them again.  Sorry for the sideways pic.  I don't see the rotate function. 

[old.crows.nest]

Here is a Mexico Brooch but pinback is very different:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-20s-Taxco-Lapis-Lazuli-Malachite-Morning-Glory-Pin-Brooch-Silver-950...

[minsatisstuff]

Maybe have a look at this link.  https://www.realorrepro.com/article/Dating-brooch-fasteners

[hollyblue83]

The clasp is a modified "safety pin" clasp going back at least 50 years. It's been in Lapidary Journal,Gems and Minerals(Jewelry Making) issues,college text books,etc.