Q: What is the brooch made of?
A: It is crafted from gold-tone metal with a textured finish. As a piece of vintage costume jewellery, it is not solid gold unless explicitly stated. Please refer to the Features section for full details.

Q: How large is it and how does that affect wear?
A: The brooch measures approximately 5 × 4 × 0.3 cm. It is sized for lapels, knitwear, coats and accessories. Capacity to sit well can vary by fabric thickness—please refer to the Measurements on this page for exact dimensions.

Q: How does the pin-back closure work?
A: It uses a classic hinged pin with a safety catch. To wear, open the catch, guide the pin through the fabric, then secure the catch. Avoid forcing it through very thick leather or very sheer fabrics to prevent marks or distortion.

Q: Will a brooch damage delicate clothing?
A: Any pin can leave tiny holes. For delicate silks or fine knits, consider pinning through a seam, a tighter weave (like a lapel), or using a small felt/foam backing disc inside the garment to protect the fabric. Heavier weaves (blazers, wool coats, denim, tweed) are ideal.

Q: Is the gold-tone finish prone to tarnish?
A: Minor tarnish can appear over time, especially on friction points like the back. This piece is noted as Very Good with minor tarnish on the back. Store it dry, avoid perfumes and lotions when wearing, and wipe it after use with a soft dry cloth.

Q: How should I clean and care for it?
A: Gently wipe with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Do not use abrasive polishes or strong chemicals on gold-tone plating. Store in a breathable pouch, away from moisture and direct sunlight, and keep it separate from other items to reduce scratches.

Q: Can I wear it if I have metal sensitivities?
A: The exact alloy composition is unspecified for vintage costume jewellery, and may include base metals. If you are sensitive (e.g., to nickel), wear it over clothing rather than against skin, or test briefly and discontinue if irritation occurs.

Q: How can I style a heart-shaped brooch?
A: Try the left lapel, near the collarbone, centred at a neckline, securing a scarf, or on a hat band or bag strap. The gold tone complements neutrals and dark hues; it also layers well with other brooches for a curated, vintage look.

Q: Is it vintage and where was it made?
A: Yes, this is a vintage Saint Laurent accessory and the label indicates France as the country of origin. A specific year is not stated on this listing.

Q: What accessories are included?
A: No accessories are included with this piece. Everything included is listed under the Accessories section; if an item such as a dust bag or box is not listed there, it is not included.

Q: How do you authenticate this item?
A: Every item at A Retro Tale is carefully vetted by our in-house experts using multi-point checks of materials, construction, stamps/signatures and age-consistent details. We stand behind the authenticity of all items and can share additional information on request.