


Antique Norwegian Swirl Sølje Brooch
Material: 830 silver (standard Scandinavian silver fineness before the mid-20th century)
Technique: Hand-forged filigree with twisted wire edging and curled scrollwork
Drops: Three traditional “solje” disks (dangles), gently domed and oxidized
Style: Double circle design with central filigree cluster and hanging discs
Fastening: Classic C-clasp and pin back, consistent with 19th to early 20th century construction
Estimated Era:
Late 1800s to early 1900s. The use of 830S silver and hand-wrought wire filigree suggests pre–World War II, likely 1890–1930. The open C-clasp and pin hinge also reinforce an early date.
Origin & Cultural Use:
This is a Norwegian sølje brooch, historically worn as:
A bridal ornament (wedding jewelry)
A symbol of prosperity and protection
Part of bunad (national folk costume) adornment
Sølje jewelry often features reflective discs believed to ward off evil spirits and celebrate light. The double-scroll motif and ball drops were especially popular in Telemark, Setesdal, and Hardanger regions.
Oxidation:
The darkened patina is intentional and typical of older pieces, adding depth to the filigree and enhancing contrast.
Measurements (estimated from image):
Width: ~1.5–1.75 inches
Length (with dangles): ~2–2.25 inches
Why It’s Special:
This piece retains:
Original hand-cut pin back
Early silver standard (830S)
Traditional filigree craftsmanship no longer done by hand today
It’s an authentic example of Norwegian folk jewelry from the turn of the century—ideal for collectors, bunad wearers, or historical resale.
Material: 830 silver (standard Scandinavian silver fineness before the mid-20th century)
Technique: Hand-forged filigree with twisted wire edging and curled scrollwork
Drops: Three traditional “solje” disks (dangles), gently domed and oxidized
Style: Double circle design with central filigree cluster and hanging discs
Fastening: Classic C-clasp and pin back, consistent with 19th to early 20th century construction
Estimated Era:
Late 1800s to early 1900s. The use of 830S silver and hand-wrought wire filigree suggests pre–World War II, likely 1890–1930. The open C-clasp and pin hinge also reinforce an early date.
Origin & Cultural Use:
This is a Norwegian sølje brooch, historically worn as:
A bridal ornament (wedding jewelry)
A symbol of prosperity and protection
Part of bunad (national folk costume) adornment
Sølje jewelry often features reflective discs believed to ward off evil spirits and celebrate light. The double-scroll motif and ball drops were especially popular in Telemark, Setesdal, and Hardanger regions.
Oxidation:
The darkened patina is intentional and typical of older pieces, adding depth to the filigree and enhancing contrast.
Measurements (estimated from image):
Width: ~1.5–1.75 inches
Length (with dangles): ~2–2.25 inches
Why It’s Special:
This piece retains:
Original hand-cut pin back
Early silver standard (830S)
Traditional filigree craftsmanship no longer done by hand today
It’s an authentic example of Norwegian folk jewelry from the turn of the century—ideal for collectors, bunad wearers, or historical resale.