Brooches have come a long way from their origins where they were used in a functional capacity to fasten or secure articles of clothing. It is believed that the Romans were the first to elaborately decorate their clothing pins which they named fibula, placing them on the shoulder to secure their robes. The practical uses of brooches somewhat ceased during the middle ages when brooches transitioned into ornaments used purely for adornment and decoration. Brooches can be found in an array of designs featuring precious metals, gemstones of every kind, fine enamelling, engraving and carving. Due to their versatile nature brooches can and have been worn on hats, scarves, overcoats, ball gowns, sashes, belts and even as pendants.
Our reigning monarch Queen Elizabeth II is rarely seen without one of her elegant pins. Since her coronation in 1952 she has delighted us with creations from Garrard, Boucheron and Cartier to name a few. Many of her brooches were inherited upon her accession to the throne and hold immense historical value.
More recently brooches were featured adorning celebrities at the MET gala in New York city. Actress Saoirse Ronan wore an Anna Hu Butterfly brooch set with rubies, pink and white diamonds accessorising the midsection of her gown. Singer Jared Leto opted to wear a Cartier diamond and sapphire brooch instead of the traditional bow-tie. Actress Allison Williams was photographed wearing diamond and pearl brooches in her hair and Actress Uma Thurman stole the show with a Cartier museum vintage peacock brooch, featuring over eighty-three carats of diamonds pinned to the strap of her gown.
At Berganza we have a collection of stylish ancient, antique and vintage jewellery, including Victorian brooches. Visit us today and choose your very own versatile accessory, perfect for any occasion.
