In the late 14^th century it became fashionable to wear collars over one's armor or clothing. Many types of collars developed; perhaps the most famous is the "Collar of SS" that became associated with the Lancastrian royal party in the 15th century. Early depictions show such collars as separate metal letters mounted onto a fabric or leather band and worn high around the neck. Effigies of knights show such collars worn over the aventail - surely a very striking effect!

Shown here is an example of a "Livery Collar" displaying the wearer's personal motto, or that of his liege-lord. Similar collars appear to have been given as gifts by great nobles to their principal tenants or political allies. These would be magnificent additions to the retinue of a nobleman at a Pas d'Armes or at Court.

The letters are late 14^th century Lombardic capitals, about 1" high, cast in silver or bronze and attached to a black leather band. The terminals are silver, bronze, or copper sheets riveted over the ends of the leather band, similar to 14^th century finds from London. The trefoil link is square-section silver or bronze; typically a pendant would hang from it, often a ring as a love-token.

The letters are also available as pins or pendants. These would make great love-tokens! Shown here are a couple of larger letters (about 1.5") in sterling silver.

We are developing a line of ring-brooches, based on medieval originals from the 13th to 15th centuries. Show here is one example: A Scottish Borders type ring brooch from the end of the 13th - beginning of the 14th century (the period of Wallace and Bruce). It is about 3 inches across and makes an excellent cloak pin.

We can produce custom coronets based on medieval forms. Contact us if you have a style or design in mind, or if you want us to design something for you.