Manufacturers in the Midlands often hallmarked their wares in London to disguise the origin and increase the value. But John Bragg, a partner in the Birmingham manufacturer T.&J. Bragg, championed quality commercial jewellery. His display at the London International Exhibition of 1862 was well received, and in the next exhibition of 1872 he set out to show the high standard of workmanship that could be achieved in Birmingham. His exhibit included a handmade pendant and a machine-made brooch, with their component parts. Both were bought by the V&A in 1875.