Accession numberRMG-5166MeasurementsH25 x W20 x D5mmHistoryBrooches have been worn since ancient times when they were essential for securing items of clothing. They have been made from metals since the bronze age, with every decorative element imaginable. Around the middle-ages brooches became less structural and more decorative, using precious metals and gems to create wearable status symbols. The mid-twentieth century saw the brooch reach new heights of creativity with the introduction of plastics and paste (artificial) gem stones.