Brooches can carry senses and symbols that date back centuries. What may appear as simple adornments are, in fact, intricate pieces of art with deep significance. From ancient civilisations to contemporary fashion, they have held various senses and continue to be a symbol of identity. Today, jewellery like branded pin badges and brooches showcase logos and values, but historically, they were crafted to convey beliefs, affiliations, and emotions.
The symbolism here offers insight into the beliefs and values of past societies. Through the ages, they have been a medium for expressing everything from social status to personal passions.
The historical roots of brooches and their senses
These pieces first emerged as functional items, often used to secure cloaks or other garments in ancient civilisations. Early ones were simple, crafted from materials like bone or flint, but they quickly evolved to include metals, gemstones, and detailed designs. By the time of the ancient Greeks and Romans, they had become statements of social status and personal identity.
The Vikings, for instance, used brooches not only for practical reasons but also to signify wealth and social status. Intricately designed with metalwork, these pieces often featured animals or mythical motifs and carried a specific meaning. Over time, they developed into a symbol-laden accessory that allowed individuals to communicate messages without words.
1. Flowers
Floral designs have long held a symbolic place in jewellery. During the Victorian era, flowers in brooches became a popular way to express feelings. Each flower had a different meaning, which created a language of blooms that was well understood by society.
Roses, for example, represented love and passion, while lilies signified purity and renewal. Daisies symbolised innocence, often chosen by young women as a representation of youth and joy. This trend of floral symbolism continued throughout the Art Nouveau period, where nature-inspired brooches flourished in delicate, flowing designs.
Today, floral motifs continue to represent emotions and connect us to a tradition that spans centuries. A rose may still be chosen to convey love, while a daisy might symbolise friendship or happiness.
2. Animals and mythical creatures
Through the ages, different animals were believed to symbolise protection, strength, or wisdom. For example, the ancient Egyptians often wore scarab brooches that represented rebirth and eternal life. These scarabs were seen as powerful amulets that could protect their wearers in life and the afterlife.
The eagle, a common motif in many cultures, symbolises strength, courage, and freedom. In medieval Europe, knights would often wear eagle brooches as a mark of bravery and honour. Similarly, the lion represented courage and power, a favoured symbol among the nobility to show authority and strength.
Mythical creatures such as dragons or unicorns also found their place in jewellery. The dragon symbolised power, wisdom, and protection in many Eastern cultures, while the unicorn represented purity and beauty in Western traditions. These creatures added a mystical element and served as both a decorative piece and a talisman.
3. Religious and spiritual symbols
Crosses, often worn as brooches, represent faith and devotion in Christian communities. Cross-shaped ones became especially popular during the Middle Ages, often adorned with gemstones and precious metals to signify religious faith and wealth.
In Islamic art, geometric patterns often symbolised unity and the divine. Brooches with intricate geometric designs were worn as a reminder of one’s faith and connection to the divine order of the universe. For those in Buddhist cultures, lotus flowers symbolised purity and enlightenment, commonly used in jewellery to represent spiritual growth and the journey to inner peace.
4. Cultural symbols and national pride
Celtic knot designs, for example, are popular in Irish and Scottish jewellery and symbolise eternity and interconnectedness. These designs are still used today as they celebrate Celtic heritage and tradition.
In Scandinavia, Solje brooches are traditional pieces worn during celebrations and events. Made of silver, these are adorned with delicate spoon-like pendants that catch the light. In Norway, they are particularly significant, worn with the national costume as a mark of Norwegian heritage.
In more recent times, brooches with national flags or emblems have been used to show patriotism. These modern takes on symbolic jewellery continue the tradition of wearing them as expressions of identity and pride.
5. Hearts
The heart is one of the most recognisable symbols in jewellery that signifies love, loyalty, and compassion. During the Renaissance, heart-shaped brooches were popular among lovers as tokens of affection. These were intricately designed, sometimes with additional symbols like crowns to represent loyalty or anchors for hope.
In the Victorian era, they became more elaborate, often set with gemstones and precious metals. The addition of other symbols within the heart design, such as Cupid’s arrow or intertwined initials, added layers of meaning, which made each piece unique to the individual or couple.
Today, the heart remains a timeless symbol of love. Heart design continues to be a popular choice for special occasions, like anniversaries or Valentine’s Day.
Modern brooches and contemporary symbolism
While traditional symbols remain popular, modern designs have introduced new symbols that reflect contemporary values and ideals. For instance, brooches featuring peace signs or eco-friendly motifs, such as leaves or trees, represent environmental awareness and a commitment to sustainability.
Brooches with gender equality symbols or those representing social movements have become popular as well. People wear them to show support for causes, which makes their jewellery a reflection of personal beliefs and values. These modern symbols mark a shift towards using jewellery as a tool for advocacy and social expression.
New times — new meanings
Today, customisation allows people to create brooches that hold personal significance. A family crest, initials, or a unique design that reflects a special memory can carry layers of senses unique to a wearer.
Many jewellers offer custom options that allow individuals to incorporate symbols that resonate with their life experiences or heritage. A brooch might include birthstones, engravings, or elements that connect to specific memories and create a piece of jewellery that’s both meaningful and stylish.
The appeal of symbolism in brooches
Brooches are more than just decorative accessories; they are wearable art imbued with meaning. No matter if it’s the symbolism of a floral design, the power of an animal motif, or the faith expressed through religious symbols, these pieces offer a glimpse into the values and beliefs of their wearers.
From ancient times to the modern day, these symbols have adapted to reflect changing cultures and values. As styles evolve, so too do the symbols found in jewellery, which ensures that they remain relevant and cherished by generations to come. Each of them tells a story, a silent message conveyed through metal and stone that connects us to history and culture.
