11 Unexpected Ways to Style Natural Diamond Brooches

Brooches have made a notable return to fashion this fall. These ornaments date back to the Iron Ages when brooches were made of industrial materials like iron and other metals and used practically to secure clothing. It wasn’t until the Renaissance that brooches became a decorative accessory.

Since then, brooches have evolved significantly, particularly with the addition of rare natural diamonds and gemstones. These adornments are one of the most common heirlooms, and natural diamonds make them all the more special. Chances are you have seen a decorative brooch or two in your grandmother’s jewelry box, begging to be taken out and worn. The brooch is a simple, yet effective way to accessorize your wardrobe and there are 100 ways to style these embellishments, especially with the help of a natural diamond. There is, of course, the classic pin-to-the-lapel look, but there are also more fashion-forward ways to adorn your fall looks, such as replacing the buttons on a cardigan, fastening a brooch to the waist of your jeans, or even pinning a brooch in your hair. 

Whether you are dusting off an heirloom or looking to add a new brooch to your collection, a natural diamond brooch will instantly elevate your look. Below are our top 11 picks of vintage natural diamond brooches and creative ways to style them.

As a Necklace

Fred Leighton

Designed originally as a brooch, this Victorian-era heirloom from Fred Leighton makes for an epic conversion. This piece can be worn multiple ways; slip this on a yellow gold chain for a pendant look, or fasten on your lapel.

Fred Leighton Antique Red and White Enamel, Pearl and Diamond Twin Heart Pendant Brooch, via fredleighton.com.

To Replace a Button on a Cardigan

Broken English

This natural diamond and enamel brooch from Broken English hails from the Victorian Era and makes for a great button replacement. Whether a button is already missing or you’d like to jazz up your cardigan, fasten this brooch at the top of your sweater or in the middle button for an incredibly chic adornment.

Broken English Enamel Tiger Brooch, via brokenenglish.com.

In Your Hair

Jewels by Grace

A little bling goes a long way, especially in your locks. This Jewels by Grace Edwardian Pin Brooch makes for the perfect hair accessory. Fasten securely at the top of a braid or a half-up, half-down ponytail to achieve the look of an elegant barrette.

Jewels by Grace Edwardian Pin Brooch by Tiffany & Co., via jewelsbygrace.com.

On Your Waist

1st Dibs

Why wear a flower in your hair when you can wear it on your waist? This vintage enamel floral brooch makes an eye-catching detail whether fastened to the waistband of your trousers or cinching a top.

Mid-20th Century Pink Enamel Diamond 14KY Gold Pansy Floral Brooch, via 1stdibs.com.

On Your Sleeve

Antique Jewelry Company

They say to wear your heart on your sleeve, but have you considered wearing a vintage diamond horseshoe brooch on your sleeve? This brooch from Antique Jewelry Company is sure to make a statement. Carry the luck of the horseshoe with you on the cuff of your sweater or the end of your jacket sleeve for some added flair.

Edwardian 15ct Gold & Diamond Horseshoe & Whips Brooch, via edwardianjewelry.com.

Replace a Tie

1st Dibs

If you have a special event coming up, take your black tie attire one step further and replace the bowtie with a vintage natural diamond bow brooch.

Edwardian 1905 Belle Epoque Bow Brooch in Platinum with 3.35 Ctw in Diamonds, via 1stdibs.com.

On Your Collar

Beladora

Brooches are most commonly worn on the lapel but elevate your look and let this vintage diamond bird from Beladora take flight to the collar of your shirt.

Antique Victorian Diamond Bird Brooch in Silver and Gold, via beladora.com.

On Your Jacket Pocket

Georgian Jewelry

An additional embellishment in an unexpected place is on the pocket of a jacket or sport coat. Style this Victorian Era brooch from Georgian Jewelry on your jacket pocket. This hand-painted enamel brooch depicts a woman who is also wearing diamonds in an unexpected way.

Victorian Enamel Diamond Brooch of a Woman, via georgianjewelry.com.

On Your Back Pocket

Andreoli

A nod to the 90s and Y2K, this beautiful diamond butterfly brooch from Andreoli is begging to be worn in a daring manner. If you know you will be standing, try styling this brooch on the back pocket of your jeans for the ultimate cool girl look.

Diamond Butterfly Pin, via andreoli.com.

On a Hat

For Future Reference Vintage

Looking to jazz up your winter hats? Whether it be a fuzzy bucket hat, a beanie, a pillbox hat, or a baseball hat, a little addition of diamonds never hurts. This diamond heart brooch from For Future Reference Vintage will accentuate any and all of your headwear.

Diamond Heart Pin, via For Future Reference Vintage.

On a Bag

Lang Antiques

For all the animal lovers out there, this natural diamond and hand-painted enamel brooch from Lang Antiques is a must have. Style this brooch on your favorite nylon or cotton tote, or even a woven leather.

Three Dog Enamel and Diamond Brooch, via langantiques.com.