This is a large and stylish Scottish brooch. It has no silver hallmark to date it but does have the sought after Iona / CAI (for Celtic Art Industries) mark impressed on the reverse.
Celtic Art Industries originated in Glasgow in 1945 and started producing work inspired by the Celtic designs of Alexander Ritchie They employed several silversmiths who went on to become well-known in their own right; Iain MacCormick, Malachy Gormley and John Hart. I think that John Hart made this brooch in the 1950s. I have a nearly identical one listed - with the JH mark on the reverse and the date letter A for 1956.
It is called a Luckenbooth brooch. A Luckenbooth brooch is a Scottish heart-shaped brooch. These often have a crown above one heart or two intertwined hearts. They are typically made of silver and some may be engraved or set with stones.
The Luckenbooth brooch is a traditional Scottish love token and was often given as a betrothal or wedding brooch. One legend of the Luckenbooth brooch is that it was a symbol of love and devotion given by Mary Queen of Scots to Lord Darnley.
These brooches have a continued historic interest - and are still popular in Scotland until more contemporary times.
The lovely example is a very intricate one, as photographed - with a lot of tiny impressed and pierced details and patterns on the front.
A nice larger size - and would look good on a sash as a pin - or as a feature piece on a black cashmere sweater.
It measures: height is 4.5 cm. At its widest, it is 3.5 cm.
It has a C- safety ring closure on the back - and a nice pin. It is in good vintage condition with no damages. It will be sent to you in a little simple black card gift book and packed into a sturdy box so that it doesn't get damaged in transit.
UK postage will be FREE with Recorded Royal Mail Post.