The history of the Chanel Brooch and why we are inspired by the artist

Okay, I’ve got to confess upfront—I’m an absolute Chanel devotee. But it’s not just because of the steep price tag that makes owning anything Chanel feel like you’re part of an elite club. What really captivates me is how Chanel constantly breaks boundaries, pushing the limits of fashion with bold, unconventional designs.. And one Chanel piece that never fails to impress? The brooch. Whether it's crafted from metal, leather, pearls, or crystals, every Chanel collection brings a fresh twist to this iconic accessory.

So, when we embarked on the Pindazzle brooch journey a few years ago, I combined my obsession with Chanel and my research geekery to dig deeper into the history of the Chanel brooch—and, of course, the trailblazing genius that was Coco Chanel herself.

Let’s start at the beginning! In the early 1920s, jewelry was mostly reserved for the ultra-wealthy, with pieces crafted from precious stones and fine metals. Costume jewelry? That was considered second-class, only for women who couldn’t afford the "real" thing.

Enter Coco Chanel, the visionary who shattered conventions at every turn. Just like she made trousers a staple in women’s wardrobes, she was the first to break the boundaries between fine and costume jewellery. Chanel famously layered ropes of faux pearls and long necklaces that contrasted beautifully against her minimalist designs, boldly embracing what others dismissed as 'fake' and turning it into an art form.

Chanel’s stylish circle was a constant source of inspiration, and one standout was Sicilian aristocrat Duke Fulco di Verdura. He started as a textile designer, but Chanel, always spotting talent, quickly promoted him to head of jewelry. Together, they created the iconic Maltese Cross in the 1930s and turned it into a must-have brooch. These pieces, dripping with colorful gemstones and glass, were Chanel’s way of mixing high fashion with more affordable materials—making bold, statement-making accessories accessible to everyone.

After Duke Fulco di Verdura’s time with Chanel wrapped up in 1934, the next big thing in the world of Chanel brooches was the fabulous Suzanne Gripoix. She came in hot with her unique glass pearls—what we now lovingly call Gripoix Glass. These pearls became a game-changer for Chanel’s brooches in the 1940s and 1950s, adding a touch of charm and color that really set them apart.

Fast forward to the 1970s, and even after Coco Chanel's passing in 1971, the spirit of her iconic designs lived on. Chanel’s brooches during this time were bold and vibrant, often channeling that luxurious yet playful aesthetic that Coco was known for. These pieces were all about making a statement and celebrating individuality.

Then came Karl Lagerfeld in 1983. Talk about a fresh breeze! Lagerfeld breathed new life into Chanel brooches, mixing modern flair with classic elements. His oversized designs captured attention and became must-have accessories for any fashionista looking to elevate their outfit. Lagerfeld knew how to keep Chanel relevant while staying true to its roots, making those brooches even more iconic.

Today, Chanel’s collections exude fun and flair, featuring bold motifs like the lion and number five, adorned with colorful gemstones—perfect for adding chic touches to any outfit.

Among these timeless pieces, the Camellia Brooch stands out, inspired by Coco’s favorite flower, while the CC Logo Brooch embodies luxury and sophistication with its interlocking initials.

If you’re after playful and bold designs that make you feel unique—without the Chanel price tag—check out the fabulous design brooches from Pindazzle! From flower brooch to peacock brooch or butterfly brooch – we’ve got you covered!