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 part of a fine Viking warrior's protective brooch, which was ritually broken. These brooches were worn in numbers as jewelry, but also to protect from sword curs, serving as a form of armor.  It is 1 1/2” long. It is decorated with raised edges flanking a tapered cabled motif, by a Viking craftsman, 1000 years ago! Surface worn from burial. It has been professionally refurbished with the pure silver overlay restored and mounted on a Sterling silver neck chain for modern wear. It comes with certification of authenticity and is gift boxed.