Brooches
The Brooch - A Contemporary and Timeless Piece of Jewellery
Queen Elizabeth II wore them, as did Uma Thurman and Nicole Kidman: Brooches are among the timeless pieces of jewellery that lend an individual flair to every outfit. Although brooches have a long tradition dating back to the Bronze Age, one can speak of a renaissance of the brooches since around 2017. Germany's national daily newspapers such as the "Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung", the "Frankfurter Rundschau", or the "Welt" have since dedicated entire articles to them, all agreeing brooches are regaining significance as a fashion accessory. This is also reflected in the fact that they are represented in the ranges of major designers such as Chanel, Dior, Prada, and Cartier, as well as in many of the major fashion chains. At ars mundi, you can buy brooches, available in a wide range of materials.
The History of the Brooch: A Piece of Jewellery With a Function
The brooch has an incredibly special history among jewellery because initially, it did not serve exclusively as a fashion accessory. For the ancient Greeks and Romans, it had a very practical function of fastening wide garments. At the same time, however, it was considered a decorative piece of jewellery and was crafted from precious materials such as bronze, silver, gold, and precious stones. It wasn't until the invention of buttons provided a new way to fasten clothing that the brooch lost its functional purpose and became worn purely for its aesthetic value. Over the centuries, brooches and pins developed into symbols of wealth or, in the form of medals, power and recognition in some societies.
The Brooch - A Highly Versatile Accessory
Brooch designs and sizes range from discreet and elegant to opulent and eye-catching. Animals and flowers in various renditions are highly popular motifs. Moreover, many other designs are possible as well, such as styles inspired by epochs such as Ancient Egypt or Art Nouveau, or in homage to artists such as Edouard Manet, Vincent van Gogh or Friedensreich Hundertwasser. In addition, a brooch or pin can have an abstract design or bear a catchy slogan or motto. Their versatility extends to materials as well. They can be made from precious metals and gemstones, and newer materials such as plexiglass or plastics. Innovations such as the magnetic brooch prevent the need to pierce through fabric. Traditionally worn on the lapel or upper chest area, brooches are no longer limited to these locations. Today, brooches can be attached to the collar, sleeve, and even other items, such as caps, throws, scarves or bags.