Pins and brooches are yet another facinating category of jewelry with an interesting history. They became more decorative and less utilitarian thanks to the Byzantines. The Byzantines produced brightly enameled brooches worn strictly for decoration. Up until then, the brooch was more of a necessity as a dress or cloak fastener. During the 1940's and 1950's, brooches and pins were all the rage...not only for women, but men as well. Between hats and lapels, everyone was adorned with this fabulous piece of jewelry. Brooches and pins have once again become extremely popular. Whether worn on a lapel, or several worn in a group fastening a pashmina on a chilly evening, these beautiful pieces of jewelry will truly show your sense of style!