Pins and Brooches are considered the oldest jewelry of record. As there were no buttons, zippers or Velcro when clothing was first used, thorns were probably used to hold the pieces together. During the Bronze Age metal workers actually made pins of bronze. As metalworking and techniques advanced so did the design of pins and brooches.
Brooches and Pins of Victorian Times
During the Victorian era, jewelry was ornate yet dark and somber to mimic the mourning of Queen Victoria for her husband. Modern reproductions of these antique style pins and antique style brooches focus on the lovely metal work, sculpted figures and semi-precious gemstones. Cherubs and fairies adorned the chest of many a Victorian lady while those with a love of horses preferred brooches of horse heads and jumpers. Sailboats, golf tees and crowns were all popular themes of the day. Of course filigree pins and filigree brooches were quite popular especially those made with gemstones such as onyx, garnet or lapis.
Cameos
Another very popular style of pins from the 1800s and 1900s are the Cameo pins. The romantic image of the lovely lady in silhouette was a very popular theme during the dreamy Victorian era. These cameos were the epitome of beauty and culture. Cameo Pendants were also popular to wear on lovely silver and gold chains.
Insect Pins
Another popular type of pin in the 18th and 19th centuries depicted insects. Bumblebee bees, spiders, dragonflies and butterflies were all popular subjects to wear upon your shoulder. Dragonfly brooches were a special favorite and have made a comeback in the past few years. While some were crafted of simple silver others were painted in the brilliant blues, greens and yellows of the true dragonfly. Butterfly brooches were also cast in silver with abalone or stone accents to bring a lovely colorful tinge to their wings.
Functional Pins
Pins and brooches of yore were also worn for a specific purpose. Eyeglass holder pins are made of a cute little figurine attached to a loop. The loop is added to hold an individual’s eyeglasses. Ornate and quite long, chatelaine pins were made to hold charms that would dangle below the pin. These charms were usually nostalgic reminders of events and travels in a person’s life.
Whimsical Pins
While we think of the Victorian era as being rather somber and puritanical, jewelry could take on a lighthearted flair. Vase pins were actually small vases that were pinned on a piece of clothing. Miniature flowers actually stuck out of these vases. This pin was especially popular on topcoats or to hold shawls and scarves in place. While more modern but just as fun is the Betty Boop pin. This character has become quite a popular historical icon and not only is she commemorated in pictures, statues, and lunchboxes but jewelry representing her vitage image has become quite popular.
Our pins and brooches also have several other fun loving characters including frogs, fish, birds, dolphins, teapots, dogs and cats. There is a pin or brooch for just about any taste or fashion style.
