People have been wearing jewelry since ancient times. Evidence shows that the earliest people wore necklaces made of
animal bones & teeth, while jewelry made of silver & gold made its appearance by the Egyptians more than 3000 years
ago.
It was the Egyptians who were the first to
incorporate precious gemstones in their jewelry such as amethyst, turquoise, and lapis lazuli.
Soon after, they were using enameling processes to enhance the stones. Drawings
show they wore necklaces, not only around their neck, but head & arms as well. They
show them wearing 2 bracelets around each arm, 1 on the wrist, and 1 above the elbow.
During the Medieval period, the combination of
the styles and morals at that time discouraged wearing most types of jewelry, however brooches were an important part of the
wardrobe. Jeweled belts & brooches were very popular as well as decorative. They usually held up cloaks, tunics, and other fabrics. Soon after, rings were introduced and became popular as well. Whether
you were lower class or noble, the wearing of rings was fashionable. At the time,
they were made of iron, copper, gold, or silver with the material distinguishing the social class of the wearer. Faceted stones did not appear until around the 1300's.
In the late Medieval/Early Renaissance period with the appearance of more skin, there was an increase in jewelry wear. Necklaces begin to appear, but mostly as collars.
Both men & women wore them, though the men’s tended to be chains of state and stature. Collars started becoming more elaborate & intricate showing twists intermixed with beads. Brooches & rings were still popular.
It was during the Renaissance/Elizabethan period that there was a flourishing abundance of all types of jewelry to wear. The Pearl became introduced and many jewelry pieces were garnished with one or several. They became the most popular and commonly used gem at that time.
Early in the 16th century, earrings became
popular, especially in Italy. It was common to see a single pearl on the ears
with a simple pearl necklace or choker throughout Europe. In England however, earrings
do not become popular until later during Elizabeth’s reign.
The art of jewelry making was refined during the
Georgian & Victorian periods in Europe. Introduced during this period were
pieces such as cameos & lockets. Platinum started making an appearance
at the beginning of the 1900's.
It was during the period known as the Roaring 20’s,
which saw a huge demand for jewelry. At an event in Paris (one of the most fashion-oriented
locations in Europe) called the Exposition Internationale
des Arts Decoratifs et Industriels Modernes, a new style was introduced which took its name from that
fair. It was called Art Deco. It was so unusual because it featured abstract geometric shapes & forms using creative & diverse
designs, once created by the Egyptians & Aztecs, and combined them with modern art.
By the 1940’s, another creative design was
introduced. Featuring flamboyant & sophisticated curves and bows in large
pieces of jewelry, the style was called Retro Modern.
Yellow, Pink, and even green gold were used along with unusual mixtures of colored gemstones.
World War II created a shortage of platinum metal so
most jewelry pieces were made of silver & gold. However, by the 1990’s,
platinum was making a huge comeback. Designer jewelry started to become popular
as well. By the mid 1990’s and into the 21st century, nearly
all jewelry was fashionable and in style. Even body jewelry such as piercings
& studs are part of today’s “accepted” fashion.
Here at Crystal Emporium, we carry an extensive variety of necklace pendants, and all are made
of 100% genuine full-lead Swarovski crystal from Austria. Each piece is very
beautiful and exquisite! It adds that perfect touch to the outfit, not to mention
the person who’s wearing it! Like many of our crystals & prisms,
they come in clear and Aurora Borealis (AB) 24k gold coating for extra sparkle & brilliance. These pendants make truly excellent gifts for that special someone in your life! Woman love jewelry! Whether it’s for Valentine’s
Day, Mother’s Day, or your niece’s graduation or 16th birthday, a crystal jewelry pendant will last
virtually forever. Order your favorite today !!!
