Celtic Luckenbooth Brooch

Luckenbooths were shops in Edinburgh,  they were the first permanent shops that housed jewellery workers and other trades in the city. The Luckenbooth Brooch is worn as a symbol of eternal love in Scotland, dating back to the 17th century it was traditionally exchanged between lovers on betrothal. The crown is symbolizing loyalty. It has figures very similar to the Claddagh Ring, and a similar purpose of being a love token. The luckenbooth brooch is probably the most romantic and lovely type of brooch in Scotland's history,  a timeless symbol of young love's promise. From the eighteenth century forwards small plain heart shaped brooches were worn to protect against evil spirits, the evil eye. Even today it is still a very popular gift for weddings for many Scots.