A wonderful, early celluloid plastic, brooch by the esteemed French artist Lea Stein. Stein entered the fashion industry in 1957 working in textiles, and by 1965 had developed an interest in plastic. She worked with her husband, chemist Fernand Steinberger, to develop a process of layering very thin sheets of cellulose acetate and laminating them to form a "multi-coloured sandwich of plastic".Each 'sandwich' was baked for a long time, then cooled and cut into shapes. The process could take as long as six months. This technique allowed her to insert different fabrics (such asbrocadesand lace), colors and textures into the plastic. This is a fine example of her unique and beautiful designs. Signed Lea Stein Paris on the pin which is iconic on Lea Stein's designs. A fantastic piece of highly collectible vintage jewellery by a true artist of her time.

Size 2.2 x 6.2 x 0.8 cm or 0.9 x 2.4 x 0.3 inches.

Weight 4.0 grams or 2.6 penny weight.