Bird Brooch

Bird motifs have featured in jewellery (and brooches in particular) since the late 1800's. During the Victorian era, a period characterized by an appreciation for nature and romanticism, bird brooches became a popular accessory amongst the aristocracy and elite. Often crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these avian examples showcase intricate designs rendered in precious metals and adorned with a variety of gemstones.

Victorian’ s held a deep appreciation of symbolism, attributing to their love of bird brooches and jewellery. Swallows and doves in particular adorned Victorian brooches due to their association with peace and love. Swallows mate for life, making them perfect jewellery gift for lovers whilst a dove represents peace, and is often presented alongside an olive branch.

Chicks and infant birds have been strongly used in antique jewellery for several reasons, reflecting different cultural, symbolic, and aesthetic considerations. Chicks are often seen as symbols of innocence, purity, and new beginnings. In many cultures, they represent the renewal of life, fertility, and the arrival of spring.

Famous bird brooches include the iconic ‘Bird on a Rock’ created by Tiffany &Co’s Jean Schlumberger in 1965. Initially inspired by a yellow cockatoo, the design has become legendary and since adopted by many celebrities including, most recently, Michael B. Jordan. Jewellery house Cartier is also well known for their bird brooches, with one of the most well-known Cartier birds being the colourful flamingo brooch made for the Duchess of Windsor in 1940. Over the wartime years the bejewelled birds were symbols of freedom, pride and natural beauty.