Medieval Bronze Ring Brooch | 'Sign of a True Friend' Inscription

Medieval Bronze Ring Brooch | 'Sign of a True Friend' Inscription

A Design That Transports You to the Past

The brooch is shaped as a perfect circle with a diameter of 6 cm. Its front face is adorned with an engraved inscription in a period style that runs along the entire circumference. The dominant feature is a sturdy pin, approximately 5.5 cm long, with a head skilfully decorated with granulation—a cluster of tiny beads. This decorative element is not only visually pleasing but also historically accurate. The reverse side of the brooch is left with a rawer finish, featuring casting texture that alludes to its creation process, just like original archaeological finds.

Choose Your Finish

This unique piece is available in two variants to perfectly match your style:

• Polished Bronze: This version boasts a bright, lustrous golden sheen, reflecting the appearance of a newly crafted and treasured item. It's perfect if you want your accessory to look pristine and eye-catching.
• Antiqued Bronze: For a more weathered and authentic look, this finish features a dark patina that settles into the engraved details, giving the brooch the character of a cherished heirloom or an archaeological discovery.

How to Use Your Brooch Correctly

Using the brooch is very simple and secure, even for heavier fabrics like wool or thick linen.

1. Pierce the fabric of your cloak or garment with the sharp pin.
2. Pass the tip of the pin through the central opening of the brooch.
3. Rotate the entire brooch by 90 degrees so that the pin rests against the ring. This locks the mechanism in place, and the brooch will hold firmly.

Before first use on light-coloured fabrics, we recommend wiping the brooch with a dry cloth to remove any potential residues from manufacturing.

A Brooch as a Symbol of Friendship and Status

Ring brooches, also known as annular brooches or fibulae, were an essential part of dress for both men and women across all social classes in the High Middle Ages. Besides their practical function, they served as a display of wealth and social standing. They were often given as gifts to express affection, love, or deep friendship.

A Piece of History: A Message Hidden in Metal

The inscription on this brooch, "IE SUI CIN DE TREA MI E," is in Old French and translates to: "I am a sign of a true friend." Such "speaking" objects were very popular in the Middle Ages. A piece of jewellery was therefore not merely an ornament but carried a personal message, a confession, or a motto that was important to the wearer and those around them.

Caring for Your Bronze Treasure

To keep your brooch looking its best for years to come, follow a few simple guidelines:

• Wipe it with a soft, dry cloth after wearing.
• Protect it from moisture, sweat, and chemicals (e.g., perfume, hairspray).
• Store it in a dry, dark place.
• To restore its shine (especially on the polished version), you can occasionally polish it with a natural wax or mineral oil.
• Never use abrasive cleaners, as they could damage the surface and the natural patina.

Specifications