Antique jewelry glossary

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Tie pin

A decorative pin worn inserted vertically into a necktie or scarf. The ornamental top has been made with a great variety of ornamentation, including gemstones, pearls, coral, etc., as well as a representation of many objects, animals, and other motifs.

The pin was made in the 18th century with a zigzag grooving to prevent slipping, but those made in the 19th century usually have merely a few twists in the pin about two-thirds of length up. Some such pins were made in pairs joined by a chain and worn together. Occasionally they are provided with a safety device, to prevent loss. The same as a 'cravat pin', 'stick pin' or 'scarf pin'.

From: An Illustrated Dictionary of Jewelry, autor: Harold Newman, publishers: Thames and Hudson