Q: What are the measurements of this brooch and how does it sit when worn?
A: The brooch measures approximately 8 × 5 × 0.5 cm. It has a classic pin fastening that sits neatly on lapels, knitwear and structured fabrics. Please refer to the Measurements on this page for exact dimensions.

Q: How secure is the fastening and how should I attach it?
A: It features a traditional pin with a secure clasp. Guide the pin through the fabric, close the clasp fully until it locks, and avoid forcing it through very thick or stiff materials to prevent bending the pin.

Q: Will a brooch damage delicate fabrics? Any placement tips?
A: Brooches are best on sturdier areas like jacket lapels, coat collars, dense knits or seams. For delicate fabrics (silk, fine cashmere), pin through a doubled layer or seam, or place a small piece of felt on the inside as a protector. Remove the brooch before dry cleaning to avoid snagging.

Q: What materials do Chanel costume brooches typically use?
A: Chanel costume jewellery usually combines a base metal with a gold- or silver-tone plating and strass/crystal embellishment. Many recent pieces are described as “Metal & Strass”; precious metals are reserved for fine jewellery lines.

Q: Are the stones Swarovski crystals?
A: Some Chanel brooches are described by authorised resellers as set with Swarovski crystals, while others use glass crystals or resin cabochons depending on the design and season. This piece features clear baguette and round-cut crystals; specific stone suppliers are not stated by Chanel for every item.

Q: Is the silver-tone finish rhodium or palladium?
A: Chanel’s silver-tone finishes are commonly achieved with high-performance platings such as palladium or rhodium over base metal. The exact plating mix varies by collection and is not specified for most vintage pieces.

Q: How can I authenticate and roughly date a Chanel brooch?
A: Genuine pieces typically have a signature stamp or oval plaque on the back with “CHANEL”, “Made in France” or “Made in Italy”, and on many modern/vintage pieces a season code (for example, two digits for the year plus a letter like P for spring or A for autumn). Fonts, placement and finish vary by era. This item has been rigorously authenticated by A Retro Tale’s in-house experts.

Q: Where was this brooch made?
A: The back stamp for this piece indicates Italy. Chanel jewellery has been produced in both France and Italy depending on the season and workshop.

Q: How should I care for and store it to keep the crystals bright?
A: Put on perfume, hair spray and lotions before the brooch; avoid water, humidity and prolonged sunlight; wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth after wear; and store it separately in a soft pouch or box to prevent abrasion.

Q: What is included with this item?
A: Everything included is listed under the product information on this page. If an item (for example, a box) is not listed there, it is not included—please contact us if you would like us to confirm.