Normandy is best known for its elaborate crosses. Only rich women could afford a large gold cross, but almost every woman in Normandy owned a silver cloak clasp. They are the most characteristic item of traditional Normandy jewellery. They are usually stamped from a thin sheet of silver, with a pierced pattern imitating cut steel. They have a broad hook at the front, which is often engraved with flowers. They were used to fasten women’s cloaks or capes, and are always made of silver.

These clasps are a delight for silver collectors, as they invariably carry a full set of French silver and maker's marks. Similar clasps were worn in Poitou, and in Zeeland in the Netherlands.