Vintage Sterling Silver Ola Gorie Tree Of Life Brooch Lovebirds Scottish (t5)

This charming'Tree of Life' pin was created in Orkney, Scotand by the celebrated silversmith, Ola Marie Gorie. She was born in 1937 and after graduating from Grays Art School in Aberdeen moved back to the Orkney Island. She is regarded as the founder of the modern, Scottish craft movement. Ola retired in 1997 but her work is perpetuated by her daughter, Ingrid Tait.

This pin is based on a symbol carved on a cross in Jarrow Northumberland It was dated to circa the 10th century AD. It measures 1 and 3/8" (3.5cms) across the top by 1 and 1/8" (2.9cms) vertically. It weighs a substantial 7.5 grams. The pierced pin has a stunning design of a pair of birds perched on the branches of a tree. There are swirling lines, leaves and berries.

In the centre is a little basket with flowers The silver is attractively part engraved and part shiny silver. The reverse is neatly finished with a fully functional safety clasp and straight pin. There are some hallmarks but on many such pieces are very tiny and unclear. You distinguish the artist's signature'OMG' and some other details.