Bar Brooch in Original Box / Sterling Silver Bar Brooch by Ward Brothers / Scottish Bar Brooch

The history of the Scottish jewelry brand “Ward Brothers” began in the late 19th century in Glasgow.

Handcrafted from sterling silver in Celtic, Victorian and Scottish style, the pieces had a symbolic meaning. This is a Lucky Heather and Horseshoe design which was worn to attract good luck and success. The brooch features a lucky horseshoe with a sprig of heather in the centre.

There are also faux pearls to give the appearance of White Heather which is a very rare and desirable variety of heather, which is very lucky for brides.

Legend has it that in the 3rd Century AD, Malvina (daughter of the legendary Scottish poet, Ossian), was betrothed (engaged to be married) to a Celtic warrior named Oscar. Tragically, Oscar died in battle, and when Malvina heard the news she was heartbroken. The messenger who delivered the bad news, also delivered a spray of purple heather that Oscar had sent as a final token of his undying love for her. It's said that when Malvinas' tears fell onto the flowers in her hand, they immediately turned white, and this magical occurrence prompted her to say 'although it is the symbol of my sorrow, may the white heather bring good fortune to all who find it.'

Even today, white Heather is considered to be lucky, especially for brides, and adding a spray of it to your bouquet or on table decorations is popular. If you have Scottish roots, have a Scottish-themed wedding coming up, or just want to add a touch of good luck to your ceremony, here is your lucky brooch to give you good luck.

It can be your something old. This brooch is made by the Scottish jewelry brand Ward Brothers and their trademark can be found twice on the brooch. Once behind the horseshoe, and another hallmark on the bar brooch itself.

The company started in the early 19th century and as their pieces were made with great craftsmanship, the company’s jewelry became very popular, and as a result, the company expanded its business. So, jewelry production began in Edinburgh and then in Birmingham.

Traditionally, the craftsmen of this brand made jewelry from sterling silver. This piece comes with the original box that I found with it.

The exterior of the box is a rich wine velvet and the interior is a white silk top, with a cream velvet on the inside. There is no mark or trademark on the inside of the box.