![Ouch-Dowgate Hill Brooch. Probably German c.1000. © Trustees of the British Museum.](https://www.langantiques.com/university/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Dowgate_Hill_Brooch.jpg)
Ouch is an archaic term for an item of jewelry sewn onto a garment instead of being held in place by a pin. These were often gem-set with a bezel-like filigree edge. The bible references a pair of gold ouches, set with engraved onyx, sewn one on each shoulder and suspending a chain between them supporting a breastplate. Medieval ouches were worn as cloak clasps connected by a chain between them.
Also known as nouch, ouche and owche.