The visual appeal of fine jewelry has never ceased to amaze us. In fact, jewelry pieces have been objects that denote social status especially during ancient times. They have significantly shaped many traditions that we know today. From necklaces and earrings, to rings and bracelets, these adornments have provided humans with worldly satisfaction that no other material could induce.
Fine jewelry pieces have different types and finishes. Some are worn as adornments, while others serve as symbolic tokens presented in different occasions. There are also pieces that are inexpensive and simple in finish, while other articles are very expensive and made from the finest materials. Below are some of the most common articles of jewelry available in the market as well as their qualities and purposes. Rings are probably the most common forms of jewelry known to man. They usually come in differing varieties, the most common of which are in plain cylindrical bands adorned with gemstones like diamond heart or round cuts, spiral or serpentine coils, signet rings, and open on one side. Rings have different functions but they are commonly used as symbolic tokens during engagements and weddings or just to accentuate the fingers. In the case of signet rings, they commonly bear the emblems of fraternal orders or other organizational insignias.
Another type of jewelry is the necklace, which is intended designed to be worn around the neck. Basically, there are four general forms of necklaces: close fitting collar band with stones or beads, chain necklace with a single pendant, row of beads that are usually graduated in size held by a wire or chain, and several chains or strings of differing lengths worn on top of each other. Necklaces can be created from various materials but works well with metals, gemstones or the combination of two, and they are usually partnered with pendants made from gemstones with the diamond heart being one of the most sought after pendant design. In order to highlight necklaces, they are worn with tops or dresses that have low necklines, as this clothing finish diverts the attention of people towards the neck where the said jewelry is hanged.
Meanwhile, earrings are jewelry for the ears that can either be set on against the ear lobes or hanging drops like pendants. One of the favorite forms of earrings set on the ear lobes are large pearls, while most popular hanging earrings are the ones called chandelier earrings. Traditionally, it is a requisite to have the ears pierced when wearing earrings as this practice was once considered a barbaric act. Currently, earrings can be worn either through piercing the ears or just by clipping the said jewelry.
Another type of fine jewelry is the bracelet, which is worn on the arm. This large ring-like piece may come as closed band, spiral coil, open on one side, closed with clasp or flexible rings formed as links. Other than the aforementioned pieces, there are other types of jewelry that one may encounter in the market including pins, cuff links, anklets, chains, brooches, and collar buttons to name a few. All in all, articles of jewelry vary in terms of function, design and quality; it is within the discretion of the wearer where he or she would like to use these pieces.
In creating fine jewelry articles, metals, gemstones, coins as well as other materials are utilized though they are commonly set into precious metals, accentuated with gemstones like diamond heart. Aside from their ornamental purpose, jewelry pieces have long been used throughout history as symbolic tokens given during occasions especially during weddings and betrothals. They were also used to denote power and status in many societies.
-Lorraine Jacobs
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