Playbird Enamel And Copper Egyptian Brooch

I love this egyptian inspired pin done in red and yellow enamel on copper.  It is marked "Handmade by PLAYBIRD" on the back, but I could not find any historical information on this maker anywhere.  I believe this pin was made between 1950 and 1980.  I am a big fan of copper and enamel jewelry, and have several pieces in my collection. 

Copper was a valueable mined mineral by the ancient Egyptians.  They began producing crowns, headdresses, and copper jewelry in 2500 BC and it became a status symbol for those who possessed or wore it.  Copper was also an important part of Egyptian rituals, including mummification.  From Ancient Egypt to today, copper is believed to improve health and have several healing properties.  One article listed on an Ebay review gave the following list of those properties:

• Overcomes Fatique
• Raises Energy Levels
• Improves Communication
• Improves Concentration
• Raises Self-Esteem
• Relieves Stress
• Aids in Bone Formation & Healing
• Relieves Arthritis & Rheumatoid Diseases
• Improves Blood Circulation & Oxygenation
• Detoxification
• Reduces Swelling
• Stabilizes Metabolism
• Aids in Skin Healing

Feel free to contact me if you are interested in purchasing this piece.  Questions, comments, and additional information are always appreciated.  My online shop on http://www.rubylane.com/ is coming soon.

Ebay. Retrieved 3/11/2011 from http://reviews.ebay.com/Copper-Jewelry-History-Health-amp-Healing_W0QQugidZ10000000000912515