Enamel Butterfly Brooch – made by J Aitkin & Son in Birmingham 1916
 
This exquisite antique brooch, hallmarked for Birmingham and dated 1916, is a fine example of early 20th-century British jewellery craftsmanship by J Aitkin & Son, renowned for their silver and guilloché enamel work. Crafted during the late Art Nouveau period—a time when natural forms and vibrant colours were celebrated in jewellery design—this piece beautifully captures the era’s fascination with the natural world.
 
The brooch features vari-hued pink enamel wings, delicately accented with green markings and a mint green enamel body. Four green dots adorn the wings; three of these have been sympathetically restored with model paint to blend with the original enamel. Such restoration is common in genuine antiques, ensuring the brooch retains its original charm while preserving its integrity for future generations.
 
Antique Character and Patina: As a true antique, this brooch displays gentle wear consistent with its age. This subtle patina is a hallmark of authenticity, valued by collectors as evidence of its history and use. The presence of minor wear and expert restoration not only confirms its status as a genuine period piece but also contributes to its unique character. In the world of antique jewellery, such signs of age are celebrated; they tell the story of the item’s journey and enhance its desirability.
 
Symbolism and Significance of Butterfly Jewellery (circa 1916): Butterfly motifs were especially popular in the Art Nouveau period, symbolising transformation, renewal, and the beauty of nature. Across cultures, butterflies are associated with the soul, hope, and personal growth, making them enduringly meaningful in jewellery design. Around 1916, butterfly jewellery would have resonated as a symbol of optimism and resilience—qualities much sought after during the challenging years of the First World War.
 
Sustainability and the Circular Economy: Purchasing and cherishing antique jewellery is a conscious choice in support of the circular economy. By investing in a piece with history, you are helping to reduce the demand for newly mined materials and supporting sustainable luxury. The gentle wear and careful restoration of this brooch are not flaws but rather markers of its long and cherished life, making it a responsible and meaningful addition to any collection.
 
This brooch is a testament to the enduring beauty of antique jewellery, offering both historical significance and timeless elegance.