Antique Norwegian Swirl Sølje Brooch

$125.00
  • 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.