Finding Symbolism in Jewelry is no new concept. From ancient civilizations to modern times people have often used jewelry as a symbol of status, and wealth, Time changed and jewelry became more of a fashion accessory, but no matter what Jewelry has always been used and is being used to symbolize one thing or the other. The thing that it has been used the most is to express feelings of love to one another. This method extends far beyond engraving words onto jewelry pieces – in this article, we explore how jewelry design has been utilized as a form of expression of affection over time.
The History of Symbolism in Jewelry
Jewelry has long been part of human culture and its symbolism has changed throughout time. Ancient civilizations attributed it with magical properties; medieval people saw jewelry as an indicator of status or wealth; while it began becoming associated with love in Renaissance designs.
The Renaissance Era:
Europe experienced an artistic revival during this era, and jewelry design was no exception. Artists and craftsmen began incorporating symbols of love, devotion, and fidelity into their designs – such as the Irish Claddagh Ring which features two hands holding up a heart crowned with a coronet and crown to signify love, friendship, and loyalty (heart), hands holding out friendship (hands) and crown symbolizing loyalty (coronet).
The Victorian Era:
The Victorian period was known for its sense of romance. Queen Victoria’s relationship with Prince Albert is well known and this romanticism pervaded the jewelry of that era; lockets with portraits or locks of hair were popular, while rings engraved with hidden messages became increasingly fashionable; symbols like hearts, bows, and flowers often made appearances in designs from this era.
Symbols of Love in Jewelry Design
There are some feelings that require something more powerful than words to express them. When words fail, symbols are used to transcend that language barrier. When that feeling is of love, jewelry from Evry Jewels has been the go-to option for many. Here are some commonly associated symbols:
- Heart: Hearts have always been seen as symbols of love, and heart-shaped pendants, earrings, and rings have long been used as expressions of that sentiment. From romantic love to affection and compassion, the heart represents all these emotions through jewelry design – such as pendants or rings featuring its shape – making a timeless declaration of affection on occasions such as Valentine’s Day or proposals.
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- Interlocking Rings: Interlocking rings (sometimes known as Russian wedding or rolling rings) symbolize unity and partnership. Consisting of multiple intertwining bands interwoven around each other, these interlocking rings serve to symbolize two individuals coming together in harmony for lifelong commitment and are popularly chosen as wedding or anniversary gifts to represent shared destiny and inseparable bonds between partners.
- Infinity: The infinity symbol, depicting an infinite and eternal love, can be found incorporated into jewelry to represent this sentiment of unwavering affection and commitment that knows no boundaries or end. Recently it has gained immense popularity, becoming popularly worn around couples’ wrists or necklaces shared among family or friends as a reminder that love knows no end and never will.
- Knots: Knots have long been seen as symbols of love and commitment throughout various cultures. A love knot in particular symbolizes strong, lasting bonds. Comprised of several intertwined loops with no beginning or end point, it represents undivided eternal affection.
Jewelry as a Gift of Love
Jewelry has been given as a gift since its inception, and it has been on top of the gift chain. Take rings, for example, they have been symbolizing love and togetherness for a very long time. In today’s day and age, an engagement or wedding is incomplete without a ring present to symbolize it.
When someone wants to express their love to their better half or to celebrate a special day such as an anniversary or Valentine’s Day. All these occasions and events feel incomplete without the presence of jewelry.
Conclusion
Jewelry is much more than an attractive accessory; it is an expression of affection and commitment, conveying feelings we often cannot verbalize through tangible symbols such as materials and gemstones chosen, meaningful designs incorporating birthstones or engravings, and custom-made designs incorporating meaningful inscriptions; it makes a striking and highly personal way of showing love! As gifts it serves to remind special moments and to show our affection; from engagements, weddings, or anniversaries through birthdays it remains treasured through time!