The History of the Yellow Diamond

The yellow diamond is a unique form of diamond that gets it's sunny color from the amount of nitrogen that is present when it's formation is happening in the Earth. The history around this stone is what makes it so special and gives it a legend worth considering when encountering it.

The history of the yellow diamond is dominated by the story of one 55 carat stone named The Sancy. The claim is that The Sancy was brought from India and then Charles, Duke of Burgundy lost it in a battle field. In the end of the 16th century Nicholas Harlai of Sancy bought this diamond in Constantinople making him the first verified owner of this fascinating stone. That is how it then got it's name as The Sancy.

The Sancy Diamond was later loaned to King Henry III of France and King Henry IV of France. It was sold to the English Crown then purchased back to the French Crown by James II. The drama does not stop there. It was then used to pay an unpaid loan, purchased by a Cardinal, inherited by the French Crown and then stolen from the French Crown. It was part the Napoleon court, was bought by a merchant from Bombay and exhibited in the 1867 Paris Exhibition. In 1906 The Sancy Diamond made its way to America to be worn in the wedding tiara of Lady Astor. In 1978 The Sancy Diamond was sold and returned to France. The Sancy can now be seen in its permanent home in the Louvre.

Another figure in the history of the yellow diamond is a stone known as The Tiffany. The Tiffany is a massive 287 carat golden-yellow diamond. It is claimed to have been found in South Africa in 1887. It was then sold to Tiffany jewelers for $18,000. They are still the current owners of this spectacular jewel. This incredible stone has been on display in many famous exhibitions including the Kimberly Mine's centennial celebration and the World's Fair in 1939. It was set into a necklace in 1957 for the Tiffany Ball. Audrey Hepburn wore this dazzling necklace in the famous movie, Breakfast at Tiffany's. In 1960 The Tiffany was made into a sculpture called 'Bird on a Rock'. The Tiffany Yellow Diamond can be seen today at Tiffany 5th Avenue in New York.
Today the yellow diamond in general can be seen as a trendy choice of decorative jewelry worn by our beloved stars and celebrities. This follows a tradition that this stone has carried with it since the beginning of its history in the modern world.



To learn more about diamonds, you can visit these sites:
Sancy Yellow Diamond | Tiffany Diamond | Famous Diamonds | Blood Diamonds

A Brief Connection Between Shakespeare And Leverback Earrings

Researching connections between the modern fashion world and the entertainment industry people will often point to the motion picture industry as a major mover and shaker in this realm. Something that is seen on the big screen for the first time at a Friday night opening often becomes the hottest sought after piece of clothing or fashion accessory on Monday morning.

However, there is nothing new under the sun to paraphrase William Shakespeare and that is exactly where one can go to find an excellent example of how costume jewelry can become a mainstay item in the everyday word. A specific accessory to keep in mind is the leverback earring.

Leverback earrings are a rounded piece of metal with a small hook on the back that hold the ring, loop, pendant, jewel or even feather in place on the ear with pressure after being snapped into place. Examples of leverback earrings can be traced back through antiquity in royal tombs and pyramids.

The functionality of such an item is easy to see when considering the rapid and multiple costume changes that actors had to make during those times. Costume jewelry had to sometimes be a little larger than life if it was to be seen from the back row of a theatre. Larger heavier pieces could wear down or tare a pierced ear and nothing ruins a dramatic scene quicker than a piece of a costume falling to the stage floor with a thud.

In Elizabethan England only men were allowed to perform on stage. In a small production a young boy or young man might have to switch from a male to female role between scenes several times during a performance. The ease of operation of leverback earrings would make for effective but believable costume changes. In a setting where the audience was sometimes even known to sit on the edge of the stage if there were no more seats left an up close and personal view of the actual gender of the actors could be helped along with dangling and sparkling jewels. Again, what may have been seen on an opening night at Shakespeare’s The Globe theatre would most assuredly be a sought after item the following day, provided of course the play was a success. There are not many known instances where a play by Shakespeare was not a success.


For other sites related to leverback earrings, check out these articles:Clip On Earrings | Magnetic Earrings | Fake Earrings | William Shakespeare

The History of Puzzle Rings

There is very little actually known about the history of puzzle rings, though there are various beliefs concerning where it originated from. There are theories that the Egyptians were the first to create the puzzle ring, while others believe that the rings were created in China two thousand years ago. Another popular belief is that the puzzle rings originated in Arabia, and were used as wedding bands by Sheiks and chieftains. These stories state that the puzzle rings were to ensure fidelity in wives, and that the husbands would not tell their wives the solutions to the puzzle ring. It was believed that if the woman decided to be unfaithful, she would remove the puzzle ring and it would simply fall apart in her hands. If the groom found and put the ring back together, he would learn that his wife was cheating on him. Another theory concerning the history of puzzle rings is that the ring is a gift given to the groom by the father of the bride, and trying to solve the puzzle is supposed to soothe the groom’s nerves by keeping him busy.

In European countries, these rings are used as wedding rings are also known as “Gimmal Rings”, which is from the Latin word for “twins.” In sixteen hundred, a pair of clasped hands were added to the design of puzzle rings, not only for the sake of making the ring look more appealing, but for religious people. A heart was also added between the clasped hands, creating the “Claddagh” ring. Yet another theory states that the rings were originally created during the Renaissance, and people used them as a memory aid. Others claim that the rings were created by the Turks so that the American military would buy them and send them back home to loved ones.

The history of this particular piece of jewelry is as complex as the ring’s design, and shrouded in myth, legend and theory. The fact that no one is completely certain about what country they originated from serves to make them all the more appealing. Even though it can be interesting to discern the history of a certain design, it can be rather difficult since the design of the ring is shrouded in secrecy. It is an interesting and elegant design that can be created in gold, silver or platinum and may or may not be adorned with diamonds or other precious gemstones. Though the basic design of the ring may vary from jeweler to jeweler, the elements of the design remain essentially unchanged.



If you would like other articles related to the puzzle ring, you can check out:
Gimmel Rings Information | Claddagh Ring Information | Unique Wedding Rings | Legendary Jewelry

History of the Black Pearl Necklace

Black pearls were said to be discovered around 1845 from the South Sea and the Mexican coast, though there has been no real documented date of the finding. In the beginning black pearls were considered of less value than the yellow or white pearls. It took about ten years for the pearls to become popular and fashionable. The pearls were first considered a part of fashion in the nineteenth century in Europe. The Empress Eugenie of France wore a black pearl necklace. During this times the value of black pearls was high because of their rarity.

Royal families have loved pearls for years. The Egyptians, Romans, and Arabians have all prized pearls over all other gems in their history. Egyptian love for decorative pearls were in effect since 4200 B.C. Pearls were a pivotal role in an important documented dinner between Cleopatra and Marc Anthony.

Black pearls are currently very costly because they are now of high demand. The black pearl necklace is available in both cultured black pearl and natural black pearl. Cultured black pearls are a little more expensive because it requires more labor on these pearls. They are assisted by expert pearl farmers. Where natural pearls are obtained straight from their host shell.

Generally the color of a pearl is the same color of the shell. The color of the pearl corresponds with the point of the shell at which it was formed. There are several theories on the coloration of a pearl. Once upon a time dew was considered a reason for pearl coloration. Fair weather formed white pearls and cloudy weather formed dark or black pearls. People then began to believe that color was influenced from water depth. In deep water they were white and in shallow water where sunlight could penetrate, dark pearls were formed. It then advanced to the belief that location was the reason for dark pearls. In waters with dark mud dark, pearls formed.

Read more about pearls with these articles:
History of Pearls | How are Pearls Formed | What is a Pearl | Vegan Pearls

The History of the Initial Necklace

One of the most precious gifts that can be given to anyone is that of jewelry. Jewelry has come to be the type of gift given by people when they want to signify a special event with something that can serve as a loving reminder of a special time in their loved ones life. This gift can be even more meaningful when it is either personalized to begin with or has been personalized just for that person to commemorate that occasion. Gifts such as an initial necklace or some other piece of jewelry that has been engraved are always treasured gifts.

No one knows the exact origin of the initial necklace or of personalized monogram jewelry period for that matter, but it is believed that people began the practice of engraving personalized messages into jewelry around the 14th or 15 century. The exact point in history when personalized jewelry came into popularity is uncertain but one thing is for sure, personalized jewelry has always been considered a special gift because it is customized for the recipient, this is especially true of monogrammed jewelry such as the initial necklace.

Monogrammed jewelry has always had a strong hold on its popularity for a very long time. When you look at history itself you can see one of the most famous examples of an initial necklace in the court of King Henry VIII. Think back to your history classes and the first time you ever saw a portrait of Anne Boleyn, in every portrait ever done of her she is wearing her famous ‘B’ necklace. This can give you an idea of how far back the initial necklace can possibly go.

While the history of the necklace and even monogrammed jewelry in general might not be known exactly there is no denying its appeal through the ages. Especially when you consider that you’re wearing something that, once upon a time, was only accessible to people of royal birth.

The fact is that monogrammed jewelry is one of those timeless trends in jewelry that have retained its popular standing, probably since the very first piece was seen. These pieces have always been and will always be extremely popular. Giving a piece of monogrammed jewelry as a gift is not only a wonderful idea but it will make the recipient feel just like the piece of jewelry they receive, special and one of a kind.


Would you like some information on some items hit in this article? Check out:
Anne Boleyn | Engraving Your Jewelry | Royal Jewelry | One of a Kind Gifts

History of Amethyst Earrings

Humans have been adorning their bodies with various types of jewelry for thousands of years. There was a time before precious metals and stones were used, people wore simple objects such as bones and sea shells as jewelry. Jewelry as we know it wherein precious metals and stones were used to adorn the human body, goes back to ancient Chinese, Egyptian and Indian civilizations. There are historical records of gold and precious jewelry such as amethyst and rubies used as ornaments for at least 4000 years. This trend can be seen virtually every where in the world. The reason for wearing jewelry is very simple, and that is to enhance the cosmetic look of the human body.

But not all gemstones were used strictly for ornamental purposes. Wearing amethyst earrings and rings in ancient Greece and Rome meant that the wearer would be protected from getting drunk. In fact the word “Amethyst” comes from the Greek word “amethystos” which means not drunk. In short amethyst was seen as a sort of an antidote to alcohol. The Greeks and Romans went as far as making wine goblets made out of amethyst. Apart from this type of superstitious use, amethysts stones have been deeply appreciated for its purple color. Today the amethyst is mined in many places around the world. However the most sought-after and expensive amethyst is called Deep Russian.

The reason why deep Russian is so highly prized because it is made up of 80 to 85% primary purple hues giving it its famous deep rich purple color. It is this stone that is most widely used to make earrings. Amethyst earrings made from deep Russian are considered to be the most beautiful. The market today is flooded with synthetic amethyst stones. It takes an expert to be able to tell the difference between a genuine or synthetic stone.

Therefore when buying amethyst earrings make sure you get the genuine product. The only way to be absolutely sure that you're getting real amethyst earrings is to buy it from a reputable jewelry maker. The stones used for earrings can come with other hues such as blue or red. You will be able to see red or blue hues in the cut edges. Deciding on which type you want will strictly depend on your taste. If you are adamant about getting genuine amethyst earrings, then you should do proper research before doing so. As you can see amethyst rings and earrings have been around for a long time and have been appreciated for their unique beauty.



Other sources to find amethyst products:
Amethyst Meaning | Amethyst Powers | Colors of Amethyst | Green Amethyst

The Unique History of Jewelry Trinket Boxes

While it's difficult to state an exact time period when people first began creating trinket boxes, we know that they have been considered an important part of life for centuries. Why have trinket boxes continued to be a popular, sought after item?

Jewelry Boxes Through the Ages

Before the era of fancy machinery and mass production, trinket boxes were usually carefully designed by skilled artists and were considered almost as valuable as the jewelry they were designed to hold. Trinket boxes ranged from small to large, and from basic to extremely elaborate.

The Industrial Revolution brought about the technology needed to mass produce items, making things available to more people of various class distinctions. Once things like jewelry boxes were mass manufactured, women could purchase them in local department stores or buy them through mail-order catalogs. Through these means, what was considered a luxury item was available to women everywhere. Mass production also made these boxes more affordable, and soon they were in the homes of both wealthy families and those of humble means.

Materials Used to Make Attractive Jewelry Boxes

While many early trinket boxes were made of metal, such as copper or lead, manufacturers soon progressed to using enamel with a wide variety of finishes.

The artistic influence of the 1900s saw many of these boxes designed with a flair for romance, featuring asymmetrical lines and designs relating to nature. Popular designs included clovers, roses, and other flowers. Due to their versatility and durability, these boxes were passed down through many generations. Many of these early types still exist today and are considered rare and valuable treasures.

Jewelry Boxes Today

Many women today still appreciate the beauty and functionality of these traditional little treasures. Even in our rather technologically advanced era, they are often regarded as precious and sentimental family heirlooms.

Many factors should be considered in choosing a jewelry box. Keeping close in mind what jewelry will be stored inside the box will help you choose one that is the right size for each piece to be stored safely. Since you'll want to display your box with pride, choose one that matches the decor of the room in which it will be placed. This shouldn't be too difficult, seeing they come in so many sizes, colors, designs, and finishes.

What's truly nice is that a carefully chosen trinket box is something that can enjoyed generation after generation.



If you would like to see articles/websites on other items, visit these:
Jewelry Boxes | Music Boxes | Keepsake Boxes | Trinket Box Plans