Fashion and Gifts – Exploring the Significance of Jewellery
>> Apr 4, 2013
Jewellery is almost unique
in the annals of human history, in that it provides a totally decorative
function. There are some jewellery elements that have a practical function too
– for example a medical aid bracelet, or a dog tag – but in general terms the
only function of a necklace or an earring is to ornament the wearer.
It may be argued, from this
standpoint, that there are certain textile based garments that also come under
the heading of jewellery. These would have to be items that perform no
practical function whatsoever, and are only worn with the intention of making
the wearer look good. Potentially, some lingerie could fall into this category,
though it would depend on the support function it fulfils: jewellery doesn’t
even do that.
From wedding jewellery to
children’s jewellery, these embellishments have a long history. The earliest
known jewellery is dated to around 100,000 years ago – and it is clear from
written and pictorial accounts that all the great civilisations of the earth
made and used jewellery extensively.
The word itself is derived
from the common practice of using jewels as the centrepiece of the decoration.
A jewel, also known as a precious stone, is commonly defined as any type of
mineral or rock that is polished to create a highly ornamental, universally
beautiful item, which may then be set in a necklace, on a ring or in an earring
as an item of personal embellishment.
Different stones have
different meanings. The diamond, for example, is thought to express constancy
in love and relationships. This is because of two things.
The diamond is only found
in very specific areas of the Earth’s mantle; or at the sites of asteroid
strikes. As such, it is perceived to be rare. It isn’t, there are plenty of
diamonds taken from these sites – but the fact that such specificity of
environment Is required to make a natural diamond has triggered the industry
myth that it is an item of great rarity – like true love.
The other reason for a
diamond being thought of as a token of true love is its durability. The word
itself derives from an Ancient Greek word, adamos, which means “unbreakable”
(among other things). The diamond is one of the hardest substances known to
humanity and is almost impossible to destroy.
Giving diamond jewellery in
particular as a gift, then, signifies an intention that the giver may not know
exists. Diamonds are, by this understanding, absolutely inappropriate as
childrens jewellery. Jewellery for kids is, or should be, much more concerned
with looking and being fun: in general terms, silver charms and coloured glass
are perfectly acceptable.
Many gemstones or precious
stones have specific significance for gift giving. Some are birth stones,
others are reputed to embody certain desirable characteristics. In general
terms, the giver is thought to express the characteristic of the stone – so, to
return to the diamond, if you give someone a diamond necklace or ring you are
expressing the conviction that you will be with them forever. Hence the popular
phrase and title of a James Bond novel and film – Diamonds Are Forever.
Different stones have
different significance depending on which country they are given in; and on the
overall purpose of the jewellery. For instance, a st9one in an engagement ring
has specific relevance to fidelity and constancy.
About
Author : Diyana
Lobo is a jeweller. By applying her extensive
knowledge in the field of fashion, she writes informative content about childrens
jewellery. Click here: www.acotisdiamonds.co.uk for more information on stones.
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