unknown 'S.M.L' Fern brooch

[Alpinist]

Hello,
A new member and not any sort of military badge expert, so please forgive my ignorance. I've searched here and elsewhere, but have been unable to find anything similar to this. The brooch is die-struck, 40mm long, marked as sterling silver, with a tube-hinged pin that looks original.
Being a fern, I assume it must be of New Zealand origin/issue and thought it looked military, but I'm really not sure. It has no maker's mark, just 'St.SIL' and, of course, the prominent initials 'S.M.L.'. I guess it could simply be a sweetheart badge with just the initials of the recipient/donor, but a lot of work for a one-off versus engraving the letters.
Any suggestions gratefully received!
Thank you!

[Bill A]

Hello Alpinist, welcome to the Forum. Your account is active and open for posts.

[Alpinist]

Thank you, Sir! Happy to post the ten thousandth thread in this forum!

[Amy]

Hi Alpinist,
Yes, very New Zealand looking with the fern.
Most of these have N.Z. on them but I do know even the NZ Hockey and Rugby Football Union use this badge with the different lettering.

[Alpinist]

Hi Amy, yes, I don't think there's much, if any doubt about its kiwi origins, and agreed about the sporting possibilities - I have 'NZ' and 'NZRFU' examples... but, I can't for the life of me think what 'S.M.L.' could stand for! Hence, casting my net into the military sphere... I'd be surprised if they were personal initials, which would usually be engraved on a keepsake - to be die-stamped, it must surely have been produced in some quantity.
If anyone can solve the enigma, it'd be much appreciated!