![Late-19th Century Diamond Ten Ray Catherine Brooch. Late-19th Century Diamond Ten Ray Catherine Brooch.](https://www.langantiques.com/university/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/Catherine_Wheel_Brooch-q88jzsgxyye28pd8y2njckrnygaw2yahbdf2mpulc8.jpg)
A Catherine wheel brooch has a central hub and at least eight radiating spokes. The name comes from its resemblance to the St. Catherine torture wheel (also known as a breaking wheel.) While the name is still popular today, Catherine wheel brooches had their heyday in the 18th century.