What is a fibula in jewellery?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
In jewellery and archaeology, fibula refers to an ancient brooch or clasp used to fasten clothing, functioning much like a modern safety pin. Fibulae were made across ancient Greek, Roman, Celtic and Germanic cultures and came in many shapes, from simple arched pins to elaborate forms with intricate enamel and metalwork. The word is Latin, sharing its root with the anatomical term for the smaller lower leg bone, both coming from the Latin meaning to fasten. Fibulae are among the most commonly recovered objects from ancient sites.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between a fibula and a brooch?
- A fibula is the archaeological and historical term for any ancient pin or clasp used to fasten clothing. A brooch is the modern term for a decorative pin worn on clothing. All fibulae are a form of brooch, but the word fibula is used specifically for ancient examples in academic and museum contexts.
- How did a fibula work?
- A fibula worked on the same principle as a safety pin: a long pin passed through layers of fabric and caught onto a hook or clasp to hold the cloth together. They fastened tunics, cloaks and other draped garments that had no buttons or stitching.
- Are fibulae valuable as antiques?
- Ancient fibulae do appear at auction and in specialist antiquities dealing, and their value depends on age, culture of origin, condition and decorative quality. Roman bronze examples are relatively common and affordable; Celtic or Migration-period pieces with enamel or gold work are much rarer and more valuable.
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