Since the precise grinding of individual Almandine Plates For the production of replicas of medieval disc brooches is extremely complex and very time-consuming and is therefore always reflected in the price, we have long been interested in using alternative but nevertheless convincing materials in order to be able to offer our customers high-quality brooches in a cheaper price price segment to be able to offer. A nice example of this is this trailer.
From our point of view, hand-enamelled and polished surfaces as an almandine substitute look particularly elegant. We have either a variety opaque, i.e. red enamel that is not translucent or - as an even higher quality alternative - a transparent enamel, here even a particularly exclusive and rather rare enamel powder from Japan is available. There is currently the only remaining source of translucent and original almandine-red enamel, which does not turn black during the firing process - as is so often the case - due to the oxidation of the silver in the kiln.
For our pendant made of 925/- sterling silver in the form of a medieval disc fibula, the cells originally intended for the almandine plates were filled with opaque enamel powder several times in a row, fired or melted down in the enamelling furnace at over 800 degrees and finally ground and polished with special tools. After all, enamel is colored glass flux, which, due to the hardness of the glass, usually fails miserably with conventional tools for metal.
This ultimately creates particularly colorful and lively enamel objects as a high-quality alternative to almandine, like our pendant here with its crackle and the typical pores are very close to the original medieval enamels. We are completely satisfied with our "almandine substitute" on the pendant... 😉
By the way: The ornament in the center of our pendant is also true to the original on the shrine of the Three Kings in Cologne Cathedral.
Medieval disc brooches: jewelry and practical companions
Medieval disc brooches are fascinating artifacts that served not only as ornaments but also a practical function. These round, often elaborately decorated brooches were used in the Middle Ages to hold clothing together and were also considered an expression of status and personal style. Today they are an important testament to medieval culture, fashion and craftsmanship.
The Function of the Disc Fibulae
In the Middle Ages, disc brooches were essential accessories, especially for men and women of the upper classes. They were often used to securely fasten coats, cloaks or tunics. Unlike modern buttons or zippers, brooches were practical fasteners that were easy to put on and take off. Their shape, usually circular, offered plenty of space for decorative embellishments.
Materials and manufacturing
The choice of material for disc brooches depended heavily on the social status of the wearer.
• Simple materials: Brooches for the general public were often made of bronze or iron and were kept simple.
• Precious metals: Wealthier classes preferred brooches made of silver or gold, which were often decorated with filigree engravings, enamel or precious stones.
• Decorative elements: Some brooches bore elaborate patterns depicting religious symbols, animal depictions or floral motifs.
Manufacturing was laborious, and medieval goldsmiths used various techniques such as casting, engraving and enameling to create unique designs.
Symbolism and meaning
Medieval disc brooches were more than just everyday objects. They also served as status symbols and showed the wealth and social position of their owner. Some brooches or pendants bore Christian symbols such as crosses or depictions of saints, which underlined their role as a declaration of faith. Others were decorated with runes or protective symbols that were meant to bring good luck or protect against misfortune.
Today's meaning
Today, medieval disc brooches are valuable archaeological finds and provide information about fashion and everyday life in the Middle Ages. In museums and collections we can admire these fascinating pieces of jewellery that give us a connection to the past. modern reproductions are popular, especially among fans of historical clothing or in the medieval scene.
Conclusion
Medieval disc brooches combine functionality, beauty and historical significance. As practical clothing fasteners and artistic pieces of jewelry, they reflect the culture and aesthetics of the Middle Ages and are still a symbol of the combination of craftsmanship and design.