Emblem Of Scotland - Vintage Signed 'Miracle' Pewter Crystal Rhinestone Thistle Brooch (VBR279)

Emblem Of Scotland - Vintage Signed 'Miracle' Pewter Crystal Rhinestone Thistle Brooch. This pretty brooch is crafted from pewter. The brooch features one round cut crystal rhinestone, and vintage styling. This brooch is made in the form of a thistle flower,  displaying lovely detail, and adorned by a beautiful purple crystal rhinestone. The brooch has a pin on the back, and a locking mechanism, which is in perfect working order. This vintage brooch would make a perfect gift or addition to any collection. 

History: The thistle is the national emblem of Scotland. It's a floral symbol, representing Scotland's resilience and protection.The thistle is also a key part of Scottish heraldry and appears on various national symbols and items like coins, flags, and the Royal Banner. 

Pewter, an alloy primarily of tin with other metals like copper and antimony, has a rich history spanning millennia, from its early use in the Bronze Age to its continued relevance today.  Initially favoured for its affordability and workability, it became a common material for tableware, household goods, and even decorative items. While mass production of pottery and glass gradually replaced pewter for everyday use, it continues to be produced, particularly for decorative and specialty items. 

The term Rhinestone was given to the little sparkles after the river Rhine, where quartz pebbles, rock crystals with a high lead content were originally found. Folk would collect them from the shores, jewellers cutting and moulding them into little imitation diamonds.

Miracle jewelry was first produced in 1946 by A. Hill and Company of Birmingham, England. A small factory was also located in Coldstream, Scotland, from 1969-1980. In 2006, the name of the company changed to Miracle Jewellery Ltd. The business moved to Cornwall in 2013, where St. Justin is now manufacturing miracle jewelry. 

Miracle jewelry is widely known for imitating the look of antique pieces originating in Ireland and Scotland. Many were crafted using quality metals with an old-silver or old-gold plating and high-quality stones that simulate agate and quartz. Most of their jewelry was exported for sale outside of the United Kingdom. 
Shiman Brothers and Albert S. Samuel are names associated with Miracle in the United States. These were likely distributors of Miracle branded products imported from England, some of them were likely karat gold. Shiman Brothers appear to have used the Miracle trademark in their marketing in several different iterations, and Samuel may have as well.

Measurements: Brooch 32.00 mm x 32.00 mm 

Stone Size: Crystal Rhinestone 9.00 mm 

Weight: 8.90 grams 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: England 

Date: Circa 1990