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brooch, ornamental pin, usually with a clasp to attach it to a garment. Brooches developed from the Roman clasp, or fibula, similar to a safety pin, in regions that had been part of the Roman Empire. In the severe climate of northern Europe, the brooch became the characteristic ornament because it routinely functioned as a fastening for a heavy cloak or tunic. Brooches have been made in many different shapes. A long brooch that resembled...