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The Significance of Birthstones: February and Amethyst
February’s birthstone is the amethyst, a purple stone that is a variety of quartz. With a triangular crystal system, the stone forms by lining a cavity within basalt rock – known as a geode.
Spotlight On Miriam Haskell
Miriam Haskell was a celebrated American jewellery designer, businesswoman, and costume jewellery pioneer. Her original, yet affordable hand-made costume jewellery became popular during some of America’s most testing periods, such as the Great Depression and the Second World War.
How to Clean Antique Jewellery
It’s essential to maintain your antique jewellery and keep it in the best condition possible. This will help it to retain its value, as well as preserving a piece of history for generations to come. When jewellery is properly looked after, its lifetime is extended, and its value is maximised.
Types of Symbolic Jewellery
Inspired by ancient and modern cultures, jewellery imbued with symbolism is as meaningful as it is enchanting. Representing the whole spectrum of human emotion and sentiment, symbolic jewellery comes in many forms of unique jewellery, from necklaces sporting angel motifs to brooches shaped like foliage.
The Significance of Birthstones: April & Diamond
April’s birthstone is diamond, the most popular and precious of all gems. Enduring and iconically romantic, diamonds are steeped in tradition, from symbolising status and wealth to an eternal symbol of love. Cupid himself was said to wield a diamond-tipped arrow. Given their radiance, it’s little wonder why diamonds are among the most valuable gemstones.
Unusual Engagement Rings: Gypsy Rings
Gypsy rings were incredibly popular during the late Victorian jewellery era, particularly between 1885 and 1900. This was an aesthetic period in jewellery design, and jewellers favoured diamonds and bright gemstones: sapphires, tourmaline and emerald were especially popular.
May’s Birthstone: Emerald
Emerald is May’s birthstone, a stunning gem prized by civilisations throughout history. Assigned to the month of May, it carries the green colour of spring and is a symbol of rebirth and love. At 7.5 – 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, it’s suitable for careful everyday wear.
Spotlight on: Paul Flato
Famed for his witty, flamboyant designs and celebrity clientele, Paul Edmund Flato is an institution in the jewellery world. At his peak, Flato’s opulent and whimsical Art Deco jewellery were adorned by some of Hollywood’s most glamorous leading ladies, from Katharine Hepburn to Greta
Garbo.
What is Victorian Mourning Jewellery?
The Victorian era spanned from 1837, when Queen Victoria ascended the throne, to her death in 1901. Death was a part of life in Victorian times. Mortality rates were high; life expectancy was low. In 1841, the average newborn girl was not expected to reach her 43rd birthday. These factors, along with other cultural quirks, led to the popularisation of unique jewellery known as mourning Victorian jewellery.