gold crowned heart pendant

A rose gold and silver brooch se with a crowned witch heart set in silver, with old-cut diamonds (circa 4 ct, centre diamond circa 1 ct). Circa 1900.

weight: 9.2 g
measurements: 38 x 25 mm

The brooch often with an open heart, and the tail end pointing to the right, is also called a ‘witch heart’ and has been a symbol of love, loyalty and protection since the 15th century.

The witch’s heart brooch, often with an open heart design and a tail pointing to the right, has been a symbol of love, loyalty and protection since the 15th century. Originally worn as a talisman to ward off evil, it gained popularity in Scotland in the 17th century, where it became known as the Luckenbooth brooch. Named after the locked stalls in the jewelry quarter near St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh where they were sold, these brooches were given as tokens of affection, engagement and protection to ward off evil spirits and protect loved ones. By the 18th century, the witch’s heart had evolved from a protective charm to a romantic symbol, often with a crown over the heart or two intertwined hearts as a sign of devotion and commitment. Many were made of silver and set with garnets, a stone representing love and friendship or diamonds as a symbol of love and beauty.