Can we put a pin in it?
A frequently used metaphor used to postpone a thought or discussion, but in the world of jewellery it might elicit quite a different response - possibly a query as to where the pin ought to go, or how that pin might be used.
In our Jewellery Department, the humble brooch or pin is greatly appreciated. Brooches originated as clothes fasteners, and through the ages developed into decorative embellishments worn to express fashion, style, interest or hobbies. Whilst more versatile than any other type of jewellery, brooches remain the remit of a relatively small number of enthusiasts, which is a shame as they offer so many options for use being incredibly versatile. They can be worn on the lapel, the collar, the neckline, on shoes, handbags, hats, scarves and more.
Perhaps even more adaptable than the brooch is the pin. Many would regard a stick pin as solely of use in a gentleman’s tie, but in fact they can easily be used in a myriad of ways on any outfit and often offer a more streamlined or discreet look than a chunkier brooch.
Mid to Late 19th Century Diamond Brooch - Estimate: £300-500 plus buyer's premium
Coral Brooch, circa 1880 - Estimate: £200-300 plus buyer's premium
Pearl and Diamond Brooch, circa 1860 - Estimate: £300-500 plus buyer's premium
Coming up in the Jewellery, Watches and Silver Sale on 16th May is a large array of incredible brooches and pins, such as three examples dating from the 19th century, which remain easily wearable today. A Mid to Late 19th Century Diamond Brooch in the form of a floral spray would look fantastic worn on a lapel, near the shoulder on a high-necked dress, or on a clutch bag (estimate: £300-500). A Coral Brooch, made circa 1880, includes a coral-set horseshoe with an arrow running through it, which would be a talking point worn in a hat or on a dark coloured scarf (estimate: £200-300), whilst a circa 1860 Pearl and Diamond Brooch uses a baroque pearl to great effect to create a snowdrop motif, framed with diamonds, which could be worn in any of the aforementioned ways (estimate: £300-500).
Blue Spinel and Diamond Brooch - Estimate: £100-150 plus buyer's premium
Ruby, Diamond and Pearl Brooch - Estimate: £200-300 plus buyer's premium
Two examples dating from the turn of the 20th century are streamlined designs; a Blue Spinel and Diamond Brooch features two delicately coloured blue spinels and a ‘tramline’ frame (estimate: £100-150), and a Ruby, Diamond and Pearl Brooch is modelled as a golf club and ball (estimate: £200-300). Both of these elongated, linear pieces would suit a long lapel or a bag strap.
Art Deco Onyx and Diamond Sûreté Pin - Estimate: £300-500 plus buyer's premium
An Art Deco Onyx and Diamond Sûreté Pin is of a design that reached its peak of popularity in the 1920s and is a fashionable now as then (estimate: £300-500). This style of pin could be worn anywhere and would work with both casual outfits or more formal wear.
Sapphire and Diamond Stick Pin - Estimate: £150-200 plus buyer's premium
18 Carat Gold Enamel and Diamond Novelty Brooch - Estimate: £400-600 plus buyer's premium
Two more modern examples of pins or brooches include a Sapphire and Diamond Stick Pin in the form of a panther’s head (estimate: £150-200), and an 18 Carat Gold Enamel and Diamond Novelty Brooch made by Alabaster and Wilson in the form of a penguin (estimate: £400-600). How would you wear these?
