10th-11th century AD. Vikings were highly skilled metallurgists, and as a result, breaking metal had supernatural significance for them. Breaking ringjarn (iron rings) as shown on the Larbro Stone, was thought to destroy the spirits of enemies. Similarly, Viking weapons and accouterments were broken for burial with their owners. This is the broken end of a Viking warrior's protective brooch. See our A7087.  Such decorative brooches were worn in numbers on the jerkin and provided a measure of protection against sword blows. It is about 1 1/4" x 1/2", triangular form with banded top. It was handcrafted by a Viking artisan 1000 years ago! It has been professionally refurbished with a pure silver overlay and mounted to a Sterling silver neck chain for modern wear. It comes with certification of authenticity, and gift boxed.