The Brooch

What is a brooch?

A brooch is a decorative piece of jewelry of various designs and materials that is to be worn attached to clothing or a garment or even a bag by a pin.

When did the brooch originate?

The brooch was first seen somewhere back in the 5th century around the Bronze Age, as early as 400 BC, and were originally used as a fastener or to secure articles of clothing.

Bronze Age Brooch Iron Age Brooch
Bronze Age Brooch Iron Age Brooch
 Image : Wikipedia

 

During the 5th & 6th centuries metalworkers began creating beautiful pieces of art incorporating precious stones and colorful enamels.

Frankish Bird East Germanic Bow Frankish Disc
Frankish Fish East Germanic Bow Frankish Disc
 Image : Wikipedia

 

In late medieval times they were usually worn to fasten clothes around the neck. Commonly brooches would be embellished with pagan deities symbols and gems that were believed to hold special powers of protection of the wearer.

 Amuletic Brooch Annular Brooch 13th Century
Amuletic Brooch Annular Brooch 13th Century
 Image : Wikipedia

 

Who wore brooches?

Originally, brooches were wore by the general public as a simple clothes fastener by both men and women.

It wasn't until the Renaissance and Georgian periods that brooches became more of a status of wealth by the upper class with their brooches made of pure silver and gold and embellished with diamonds, emeralds, pearls and rubies.

 17th Century Renaissance 18th Century Georgian 18th Century Georgian
17th Century Renaissance 18th Century Georgian 18th Century Georgian
 Image : Wikipedia

 

Today's Brooch

In recent years there has been a wave of popularity of the brooch, especially around Queen Elizabeth II herself and the many brooches she wears.

Or what about Lady Gaga's Golden Dove carrying an olive branch she wore at Biden-Harris Inauguration ceremony. Lady Gaga shared on Twitter that the brooch was a statement of "May we all make peace with each other". 

So as you can see, todays brooches gives a unique personal style and elegance to the wearer. They can show ones playful personality or even better... make a powerful statement.

 

Where can you wear a brooch?

Brooches can be worn pretty much anywhere you desire:

  • Neckline of blouse
  • Jacket collar
  • Blazer lapel
  • Scarf
  • Brim of hat
  • Handbag
  • On a belt
  • In your hair 

 

Tips for wearing a brooch

  • If you want your brooch to stand out, choose one that is unique and has brilliant colors
  • Make sure the background of the brooch (your article of clothing) contrasts with the colors of the brooch
  • Be sure that the fabric you are attaching your brooch to can hold the weight of the brooch itself. Some brooches can be heavier than others.