How do I clean a silver paste brooch?

Use a dry microfibre cloth to wipe the metal and stones gently. Avoid submerging foiled pieces in liquid, as moisture damages the reflective backing behind the glass. Keep harsh chemical dips away from antique mounts to preserve the integrity of the silver and the secure placement of the stones.

Were paste brooches worn as real jewellery?

Wealthy individuals historically wore paste alongside genuine diamonds for travel or evening events to deter theft. The craftsmanship matched fine jewellery standards of the time. These pieces held independent status as artistic accessories rather than mere imitations, appreciated for their intricate designs and brilliance.

How can I tell a Georgian paste brooch from a Victorian one?

Georgian pieces often feature closed-back settings where the metal completely encloses the reverse of the stone. Black dot inclusions also point toward this earlier era. Victorian versions frequently introduce naturalistic motifs like snakes, birds, and flowers, often employing open-backed settings that let light pass directly through the glass.

What does a duette brooch do?

A duette consists of two matching dress clips locked onto a central frame to form a single brooch. The wearer can separate the mechanism to decorate jacket lapels or necklines independently. This clever engineering became popular during the Art Deco period, offering multiple ways to style one piece of jewellery.