This item is handmade by Beth Miller Hall & cast from a mold taken from an original in her collection. Any minor flaws are consistent with the original item. The original brooch was molded from vulcanite. Most vulcanite Jewelry items are made in two pieces; a back or base that can be either plain or have an ornate edge, & the center medallion or focal point. The focal point is usually secured to the base with small pegs that do not go all the way through the base of the Brooch. Sometimes there is also evidence of glue being used in addition to the pegs, but this may be from a later repair. The pin mechanism for the brooch is attached on the back of the base & the point of the pin stem usually extends past the edge of the brooch base. Because Vulcanite brooches were made in two pieces, it is very common to find the same top or focal point being used on a variety of bases. There seems to be a number of very popular tops that show up very often & not only on brooches but other bases like cuff bracelets, combs & even belt buckles, This leads to speculation that vulcanite items could have been sold in sets. The ram focal point that is used in this reproduction brooch was originally mounted on an oval shaped base, just like the reproduction. The ram is not a very common focal point, but it does follow a theme of Mid-Victorian interest in flora & forest animals. Suitable for mid-Victorian impressions, including middle class or young miss, Steampunk & Cosplay participants. We ship USPS First Class Mail twice per week. US shipping only at this time. All sales final. Please ask any questions prior to purchasing. Thank you for your interest! Ram Brooch
