Looking for a special gift for someone or to treat yourself?

Why not have a look at our Specials where we are offering 20% off selected products.

Once these selected pieces are gone, they will be gone forever.

Postage on orders under £20.00 is only £2.25.  For orders over £20.00, postage is free!

Related posts:

1. Christmas Sale comes to Delicate Dreams!
2. Changes to Delicate Dreams Website
3. Valentine’s Day Sale!

By Jeff Hall

Antiquity

Pre-Mycenaean

Silver was used in ancient Italy and Greece for personal ornaments, vessels,jewellery,arrows, weapons and coinage. It was inlaid and plated. It was also mixed with Gold to produce white gold as well as being mixed with baser metals.

Examples of ancient jewelry were found in Queen Pu-abi’s tomb at Ur in Sumeria(now called Tall al-Muqayyar), dating from 3000 BC. In the crypt the queen’s body was covered with jewellery made from gold, silver, lapis lazuli, carnelian,agate and chalcedony beads.

Aegean lands were rich in precious metals. The considerable deposits of treasure found in the earliest prehistoric strata on the site of Troy are not likely to be later than 2000 BC. The largest of them, called Priam’s Treasure, was a large silver cup containing gold ornaments consisting of elaborate diadems or pectorals, six bracelets, 60 earrings or hair rings, and nearly 9,000 beads. Silver was widely used in the Greek islands however only a few simple vessels, rings, pins, and headbands survive.

Mycenaean and Minoan.

Three silver dagger blades were found in a communal tomb at Kumasa.Silver seals and ornaments of the same age were also found in these regions. A silver cup found in Gournia dates to circa 2000. Some vases and jugsfrom Mycenae are also made of silver. Some of the Mycenaean blades are bronze inlaid with

gold, , silver, niello and electrum.

Bronze to the Iron Age

Engraved and embossed silver bowls made by Phoenicians have been found in Greece. Most of them have elaborate pictorial designs of Egyptian or Assyrian character and therefore probably foreign to Greece.

However some simpler types, decorated with rows of animals and flowers,can hardly be distinguished from the first Hellenic products. A silver bowl from around the 5th century BC can be found inthe Metropolitan Museum of Art showing a fine flower style.

Silver vases and toilet articles have been found beside the more common bronze in Etruscan tombs. For example, a chased powder box of the 4th century BC in the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Roman

During the 4th century BC, the trend of ornamenting silver vessels with relief was revived. This type of work, elaborated in the Hellenistic Age and particularly at Antioch and Alexandria, remained the common method of decoration for silver articles until the end of the Roman Empire.

A lot of Roman silverware was buried during the violent last centuries of the ancient world. The largest, the Boscoreale treasure (mostly in the Louvre), was accidentally saved by

the same volcanic eruption that destroyed Herculaneum and killed Pliny in AD 79. A slightly smaller hoard found at Hildesheim (now in Berlin) also belongs to the early empire. The acquisition and appreciation of silver plate was a sort of cult in Rome. Technical names for various kinds of reliefs

were in common use (emblemata, sigilla, crustae.) Weights were recorded and compared and frequently exaggerated. Large quantities of bullion came to Rome from their battle victories in Greece and Asia during the 2nd century BC.

Early Christian and Byzantine

The earliest Christian silverwork closely resembles the pagan work of the period and uses of the techniques of embossing and chasing. The design is sometimesclassical, decorated with pagan scenes.

Most of the silver has been found in Syria, Egypt, Cyprus, Asia Minor,and Russia. It is mostly chalices, censers, candlesticks, and bowls and dishes. The techniques of chasing and embossing were often employed, but abstract patterns and Christian symbols inlaid in niello were also used. The 6th and 7th centuries saw the appearance of imperial control stamps,- early forerunners of hallmarks.

Middle Ages

Carolingian and Ottonian

In the last quarter of the 8th century the design focused on

the human figure and the use of niello (chip-carving technique.)

Examples are the Tassilo Chalice (umlnster Abbey, Austria) and the Lindau Gospels book cover (Pierpont Morgan Library, New York City).

Most influential silver design was commissioned by Royalty or the church.Liturgical plate and reliquaries, altar crosses, and the like underwent no fundamental change; Ottonian work of the later 10th and 11th centuries can be distinguished from that of the 9th only in the development of style. For example, the larger, more massive figures, with their strict pattern of folds, on the golden altar (c. 1023) given by Henry II to Basel

Minster (Musée de Cluny, Paris), are markedly different from the nervous, elongated figures of the Carolingian period.

Romanesque

In the 12th century the church was the chief patron of the arts, and the work was carried out in the larger monasteries. Under the direction of such great churchmen as Henry, bishop of Winchester, and Abbot Suger of Saint-Denis, near Paris, a new emphasis was given to subject matter and symbolism.

Gold and silver continued to be used as rich settings for enamels as the framework of portable altars, or small devotional diptychs or triptychs and shrines such as the shrine of St. Heribert at Deutz (c. 1160) and Nicholas

of Verdun’s Shrine of the Three Kings at Cologne (c. 1200).

The growing naturalism of the 13th century is notable in the work of Nicholas’ follower Hugo d’Oignies, whose reliquary for the rib of St. Peter at Namur(1228) foreshadows the partly crystal reliquaries in which the freestanding relic is exposed to the view of the faithful; it is decorated with Hugo’s

particularly fine filigree and enriched by naturalistic cutout leaves and little cast animals and birds.

The increasing wealth of the royal courts, of the aristocracy, and, later, of the merchants led to the establishment of secular workshops in the great cities and the foundation of confraternities, or guilds, of silversmiths, the first being that of Paris in 1202.

The late Gothic saw an increased output of secular silver because of the rise of the middle classes. The English mazers (wooden drinking bowls with silver mounts) and the silver spoons with a large variety of finials are examples of this more modest plate. Numerous large reliquaries and altar

plate of all kinds were still produced. At the end of the Middle Ages the style of these pieces and of secular plate developed more distinctive nationalcharacteristics, strongly influenced by architectural style: in England,by the geometric patterns of the Perpendicular; in Germany, by heavy and

bizarre themes of almost Baroque exuberance; and in France, by the fragile elegance of the Flamboyant.

The purity standards of silver became rigorously controlled, and “ hallmarking” was enforced; the marking of silver in England, especially, was carefully observed.

In the Far East the skills of thesilversmith were unsurpassed as is evident from this solid silver bowl (the photographs are 4x magnification of original item) made circa 1398 in Kampochea (Cambodia) detailing the wars with neighbouring Thai rulers.

Islam

The use of gold and silver in Islam lands was limited because it was forbidden by the Koran. Although the prohibition

was often ignored, the great value of such objects led to their early destruction and melting down. Islamic jewelry of the early period is therefore extremely rare, represented only by a few items, such as buckles and bracelets of the Mongol periods and such pieces as the Gerona silver chest in Spain and the Berlin silver tankard of the 13th century, with embossed reliefs of animal friezes.

Renaissance to modern

16th century

Using Silver from the New Americas, Spanish silversmiths, platería, gave their name to the heavily ornamented style of the period, Plateresque. England was also abundant in 16th-century secular silver, but church plate was mostly destroyed during the Reformation.

Baroque

Huguenot silversmiths who left France after the revocation of the Edict of Nantes in 1685 brought new standards of taste and craftsmanship wherever they settled—particularly in England, where the foremost names of the late 17th and earlier 18th centuries were of French origin: Pierre Harache, Pierre Platel, David Willaume, Simon Pantin, Paul de Lamerie, Paul Crespin, to mention but a few.Silver furniture, a feature of the state rooms at Versailles, became fashionable among Royalty and noblemen. It was constructed of silver plates attached to

a wooden frame. Each suite contained a dressing table, a looking glasss and a pair of candlestands. In France such furniture did not survive the Revolution but much remains in England, Denmark, Germany, and Russia.

In the far east, Chinese silversmiths produced some of the most elegant and beautifully crafted silver jewellery some of which was exported to the Royalty of Russia.

18th century

Early 18th-century English work combined functional simplicity with grace of form, while the work of Dutch and German goldsmiths is in a similar style but of less pleasing proportions. The success of the English work, however,

is due in part to the destruction of all but a fraction of French silver of the same period. English silver in the 18th-century classical style of Robert and James Adam is of unequal merit owing to the use of industrial methods by some large producers.

Colonial America

Silversmithing in the New World in the colonial period is chiefly from England. In North America it was first brought to New England by English craftsmen in the 17th century. The most important centres were Boston, Newport, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Annapolis. Outstanding collections include the Mabel Brady Garvan collection at Yale University and those in the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, the American

Wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and in the Philadelphia Museum of Art. North American colonial silver is distinguished for its simplicity and graceful forms, copied or adapted from English silver of the period. Meanwhile the colonial silver of Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Chile, and Bolivia,

while mostly Spanish in concept, shows a blending of Iberian designs and forms,with indigenous influences that trace back to pre-Hispanic times. Most of these relics survive in churches as sacramental vessels.

19th century

Napoleon’s empire brought French fashions back into prominence and the was widely followed on the Continent. England created their own more robust version of the Empire style.A recognizable Victorian style evolved in particular high-quality buttons, coins, sterling silver, and Sheffield

plate, establishing new high standards of design and of factory management and welfare services. This was followed by the craft revival associated with William Morris and the distinctive Art Nouveau style.

Modern

Factories evolved using modern equipment—for example,laser stone cutting,stamping, pressing,spinning, casting, and mechanical polishing—account. These factories supply nearly all

high street jewellery retailers. The evolution of style is now dictated by the buying public. Little has changed in the design of gold engagement or wedding rings however fashion demands have created an enviroment were the most lively designs are often those for costume and silver jewelry.

In Paris, designs by René Lalique inspired Art Nouveau, whilst in Moscow, Peter Carl Fabergé set a superb standard of craftsmanship for small ornaments. In Denmark, Georg Jensen, with Johan Rohde and others achieved not only an individual Danish style but built up several factories with retail outlets across the world, thus proving that good modern design in silver

jewellery need not be confined to artists’ studios.

Jeff Hall is the c.e.o. of the silverstall which houses a large collection of silver jewellery, a selection of which can be found at http://www.silverstall.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeff_Hall
http://EzineArticles.com/?Silver-Jewellery—A-Brief-History&id=157537

Related posts:

1. How Do I Look After My Old Pieces Of Silver Jewellery?
2. Bracelets From Then To Now
3. Jewelry from 3000 BC Egypt to the 21st Century

By Michael Nagy

A very common question is: “How long of a necklace should I get?”

Of course, there is no hard-and-fast rule, but there are some guidelines that you can follow that will make your buying decision that much easier.

The place to start is your own necklace collection. If you have a favourite piece that you love wearing, measure it, and buy the same length, longer, or shorter depending on your mood.

If you are looking for something different than your existing pieces, you have to start considering a number of factors, including your neckline and your body’s figure. If you are having trouble visualizing these styles, imagine pearl necklaces, however these guidelines apply to virtually any type of necklace.

Collar

Collars are in the range of 12 to 13 inches long, and are usually made up of three or more strands that snugly hug the middle of the neck. Very versatile, it is virtually guaranteed not to interfere with your dress, however not everyone is comfortable with the feel. More suited to petite and tall frames.

Choker

Chokers range from 14 to 16 inches, with a timeless quality that make them appropriate to combine with everything from bridal gowns, formal eveningwear to casual. The lower portion of the necklace drapes on or slightly under the point between the two collarbones.

Princess

The princess necklace is 17 to 19 inches long and is the most common length for most pearl necklaces. It is long enough to drape over the outside of high necklines, and it also works well with V-neck and plunging necklines without delving too deeply. The lower portion of the necklace ends between armpit height and collarbone height.

Matinee

The matinee necklace is roughly 20 to 25 inches long. Its length adds a sense of confidence and luxury, and can be works well with formal gowns and the professional appearance many are striving for. It looks best with higher necklines, giving them an air of sophistication.

Opera

The opera length necklace is between 26 and 36 inches long. At this length, you have choices in how you would like to wear it. If you double it up you create a fashionable two-strand choker. If you knot it at the neckline you create a vintage look that is gaining in popularity. Traditionally worn with eveningwear, it is gaining momentum as an accessory to casual attire for those on the cutting-edge.

Rope

The rope necklace is 37 inches or longer in length. Elegant and sexy, it can be worn in numerous ways such as doubled (or trippled!) to make a multistrand princess or choker, or tied in a knot to recreate a style reminiscent of the 1920’s fashions. As seen in high-fashion magazines, this length of necklace can also be knotted and slung over the shoulder to accentuate the beauty of a backless dress.

Final Musings

One final thoughts to keep in mind is to consider your other accessories. Try not to have many pieces shouting for attention. For instance, if your necklace is large or grand, keep your earrings simple.

Michael Nagy (articles[at]crater.com) writes on a variety of topics related to jewellery fashions, and is co-founder of Crater Jewellery Design (http://www.Crater.com). His more recent articles can be found at [http://www.crater.com/articles]

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Nagy
http://EzineArticles.com/?What-Length-Of-Necklace-Is-Appropriate?&id=134256

Related posts:

1. Sterling Silver Jewelry: The Standard For Quality, Reliability and Beauty

By Reynold Cummings

If you’re considering a gift of jewelry for someone special or as a treat for yourself, take some time to learn the terms used in the industry.

1. Gold

Gold means all gold or 24 karat (24K) gold. Because 24K gold is soft, it’s usually mixed with other metals to increase its durability and hardness. If a piece of jewelry is not 24 karat gold, the karat quality should accompany any claim that the item is gold.

2. Platinum, Silver and Other Metals

Platinum is a precious metal that costs more than gold. It is usually mixed with other similar metals: iridium, palladium, ruthenium, rhodium and osmium. Different markings are used on platinum jewelry as compared with gold jewelry. These quality markings are based on the amount of pure platinum in the piece – based on parts per thousand.

3. Gemstones

Natural gemstones are found in nature. Laboratory-created stones are made in a laboratory. These stones have essentially the same chemical, physical and visual properties as natural gemstones. Laboratory-created stones do not have the rarity of naturally colored stones and they are less expensive than naturally mined stones. By contrast, imitation stones look like natural stones in appearance only, and may be glass, plastic, or less costly stones. Gemstones may be measured by weight, size, or both. The basic unit for weighing gemstones is the carat.

4. Diamonds

A diamond’s value is based on four criteria: color, cut, clarity, and carat. The clarity and color of a diamond usually are graded. However, scales are not uniform: a clarity grade of “slightly included” may represent a different grade on one grading system versus another, depending on the terms used in the scale. Make sure you know how a particular scale and grade represent the color or clarity of the diamond you’re considering. A diamond is described as “flawless” if it has no visible surface or internal imperfections when viewed under 10-power magnification by a skilled diamond grader. Diamond weight is usually stated in carats.

5. Pearls

Natural or real pearls are made by oysters and other mollusks. Cultured pearls also are grown by mollusks, but with human intervention. Because natural pearls are very rare, most pearls used in jewelry are either cultured or imitation pearls. Imitation pearls are man-made with glass, plastic, or organic materials. Cultured pearls, because they are made by oysters or mollusks, usually are more expensive than imitation pearls. A cultured pearl’s value is largely based on its size, usually stated in millimeters, and the quality of its nacre coating, which gives it luster. Jewelers will usually tell you if the pearls are cultured or imitation.

To get the best deal on a piece of jewelry for yourself or someone you love, shop around. You should compare quality, price, and service. If you’re not familiar with any jewelers in your area, ask family members, friends, and co-workers for recommendations.

Always check for the appropriate markings on metal jewelry and find out if the pearls are natural, cultured, laboratory-created or imitation. Also, Find out whether the gemstone has been treated. Is the change permanent? Is special care required?

Shop with companies you know or do some homework before buying to make sure a company is legitimate before doing business with it. Get the details about the product, as well as the merchant’s refund and return policies, before you buy. Look around the website for an address to write to or a phone number to call if you have a question, a problem or need help.

Reynold Cummings writes for the Fine Jewelry website at http://www.finejewelryonline.org/ where you can get up to 50% off Exclusive True Handmade Jewelry – Rings, Earrings, Necklaces, Bracelets and more.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Reynold_Cummings
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Shop-for-Jewelry-Online&id=125097

Related posts:

1. Sterling Silver Jewelry: The Standard For Quality, Reliability and Beauty
2. Are You Safe When Shopping In Online Stores?
3. Jewelry from 3000 BC Egypt to the 21st Century

By Finn Jensen

Why shop online in the first place?

When you decide to go online for shopping there is a reason for that. Of course there is reason you think. But really; why not just go down town and buy the product you need? It’s probably only a street or block away.

Because you like to do some fast research on the net to compare prices maybe or to simply check your options out there in the product jungle. By a click on the mouse your product is on its way to your home. It’s amazing how easy it is now a days. Only a few years back in time you went to the mall to get all your shopping done in one place.

But now, you got the internet, which is one giant world wide mall. You can buy all kinds of stuff and products online: luxury, furniture’s, motorcycles, cars, wigs, diamond rings, shoes, golf equipment, jewellery, grocery, saltwater fish and a much more. I don’t think there is anything that the internet does not offer in some way.

But how safe are you really?

One thing that is important when you shop in online stores is, look for the https in the URL in your browser before typing anything private in the stores checkout page. The s that is put in front of the http indicates that the transmission is secure and encrypted. That is preventing hackers to listen in on your shopping to steal your private data. The last thing you want is for some hacker to empty your bank account either directly or via shopping in your name so to speak. So, look for the https.

Can I trust the online stores?

How sure can you be that the store actually intends to send you any of the goods you order? Maybe they simply keep your money and that is all you ever going to see from them. Again, look for signs that this online store is serious. Look for customer service; there should be a direct phone number to the store, if you have any questions you need to be answered before or after your purchase. How do they ship items, and how about if you want to return the item? It should also be possible to pay via international credit cards like Visa or similar cards. I think it is too risky to transfer money directly into a bank account, unless you know the store well.

Final word about online stores.

I enjoy shopping online. I purchase books, both e-books and regular books, clothes, vitamins, access to information and much more. The net is a wonderful media when searching for information and services. Just look for the secure signs, and enjoy your shopping in online stores.

Huge amount of quality online stores information on this site – Go there! http://www.onlinestores.infostairs.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Finn_Jensen
http://EzineArticles.com/?Are-You-Safe-When-Shopping-In-Online-Stores?&id=102004

Related posts:

1. The Benefits of Buying Jewellery Online
2. How to Shop for Jewelry Online
3. The Jewelry Box: A Perfect Companion To All Your Precious Valuables

By Barbara Gordon

An anniversary gift is the opportunity to show your loved one precisely how much they mean to you and how special you think they are.

The list at the bottom of this post shows the traditional anniversary gifts for each of the major wedding anniversaries. Even within this structure there is substantial scope for you to get your loved on the perfect anniversary gift.

A little thought into your loved one’s personality will help you to understand what kind of gift they would really love.

What does your loved one like?

It sounds obvious to buy a anniversary gift that your loved one will like but many people buy gifts that they think that their loved one will like. This often translates into what you think they should like, which might be very different from what they actually want.

If you don’t know then there are a number of things you can do to find clues.

• Listen to them for verbal clues as to gifts they may like
• Observe what they do, movies they watch, sports they play etc.
• Look at what they already have and think of complimentary gifts

What makes them so special to you?

Think of this anniversary gift as your way of showing your loved one how special they are to you and how much they mean to you. Thus your anniversary gift should represent your love for the special person in your life. Buy them a naff gift and you’ll be in the dog house for a long time!

However if you spend the time to buy a really special anniversary gift that they will love, your relationship will truely benefit, both from the gift and your greater understanding of your other half.

Find a quality anniversary gift at a great value

There are numerous retailers selling traditional anniversary gifts such as jewellery and flowers.

Don’t be afraid to think laterally however in your search for that perfect anniversary gift. For instance a paper gift could easily be a concert ticket, a romantic holiday or even a charity gift.

From here much of the work is down to you. You know your loved one better than anyone and you alone can choose the perfect anniversary gift for them. Nevertheless there are several online gift shops that offer a good range of anniversary gifts at good value.

Barbara Gordon is principal writer at The Good Gift Guide [http://www.good-gift-guide.co.uk], a site that exists to to help you find that perfect gift for the person you care about on their special day.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Barbara_Gordon
http://EzineArticles.com/?Anniversary-Gift-Guide&id=66296

No related posts.

By Brian Roberts

Pearls are an investment. As such, proper care should be used protect the luster and beauty of your pearls, while providing many years of enjoyment. Below are a few tips to help you care for your pearls.

Store Pearls Separately

Pearls are much softer than the majority of gemstones and precious metals. If stored with other jewelry, they can become easily scratched or damaged.

Store Pearls In Soft Material

Ideally, you should store your pearls in a soft cloth pouch, linen cloth, or soft lined jewelry box. These will help prevent the pearls from being scratched or damaged.

Minimize Contact With Personal Products

Personal care products, such as hairspray, makeup, and perfume, contain chemicals that can harm the pearl’s surface and dull the pearl’s luster. To minimize this type of contact, use personal care products first before putting on pearls.

Minimize Contact With Perspiration

Perspiration contains natural acids that can harm the pearl’s surface and dull the pearl’s luster. To minimize this, remove pearls before exercising or doing strenuous activity.

Clean Your Pearls After Wear

Gently wipe your pearls with a soft damp cloth after wear. This will help to remove any build-up on the pearls. Do not use anything abrasive as this may damage your pearls.

Periodically Wash Your Pearls

Periodically wash your pearls to help remove harmful build-ups. Wash your pearls in soapy water using a mild liquid soap (not a detergent). Once finished, gently rinse and place on soft towel or cloth to dry. Do not hang pearls to dry as this may stretch the silk thread.

Restring Your Pearls

To prevent breakage, you should have your pearls restrung periodically. For example, if you wear your pearls frequently, you should have them restrung annually. Pearls should be restrung with silk thread and knotted between each pearl. The knot prevents the pearls from all falling of the thread if there is a breakage, as well as prevents the pearls from chafing each other.

B Roberts
Select Pearls

About Select Pearls:
Select Pearls Canada provides fine pearl jewllery. Visit our online store for beautiful pearl necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and pendants. Genuine Akoya Saltwater pearls, Black Tahitian pearls, South Sea pearls, and Freshwater pearls.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brian_Roberts
http://EzineArticles.com/?Pearl-Care:-How-To-Care-For-Your-Pearls&id=66189

Related posts:

1. Pearl Valuation: A Pearl Buyer’s Guide
2. The Magic of Pearls
3. Cleaning Your Jewelry

By Sher Matsen

Egypt

The use of gold jewelry can be dated back to Egypt 3000 BC. Gold was the preferred metal for jewelry making during ancient times. It was rare, it was easy to work with, and it never tarnished.

Magnificent bracelets, pendants, necklaces, rings, armlets, earrings, collars, and head ornaments were all produced in ancient Egypt, the land of the Pharaohs. In 1922 Howard Carter’s excavations led to the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb and many gold artifacts, all showing the art work of ancient Egypt.

Greece

In ancient Greece, gold beads in the shape of shells, flowers and beetles were very common. In Northern Greece beautiful necklaces and earrings have been excavated from burial.

By 300 BC the Greeks were using gems such as emeralds, garnets, amethysts and pearls. They also created colored glass stones and enamel stones. Carved agate cameos and gold filigree work were widely made.

Italy

The Italian Etruscans produced granulated textured gold work. They made very large, necklaces, bracelets and earrings. They were also known for producing hollow gold pendants that were filled with perfume. Even today the Italians are still known for the quality gold jewelry.

Rome

The Romans used 18 and 24 carat gold for their coins. Coinage gold was readily available so it was popular with craftsmen for decorative jewelry. Over 2000 years ago the Romans were using sapphires, emeralds, garnets, and amber in their jewelry.

Europe.

During the 13th century the Medieval Sumptuary Laws were enacted which put a cap on luxurious jewelry and clothing. The town folk of France, banned from wearing girdles made from pearls or any other gemstone.

They were also banged from wearing gold or silver. Similar laws existed in England banning artisans from wearing gold and silver. These laws show how fine jewelry had spread beyond nobility to the town folk.

For as long as mankind has existed gems and jewels have been used as token of ones love for another. While many pieces of jewelry existed adorned with fine gems and made from precious metals, there was also some very good fake jewelry.

True gemstones and pearls originated in the east and they were bought mainly by the Italians. The Italian merchants then sold the jewelry to the Europeans.

High quality glass imitations were often used and sold with the intent to deceive. These high quality glass stones were often used in the Royal funeral robes and in children’s jewelry.

Valued more than gemstones, were the flawless, round, natural white pearls. South India provided some of the finest pearls. The Italians were able to make quality imitation glass gems and pearls that could only be identified by a gemologist.

There is historical proof that recipes for false pearls existed as far back as 1300. White powdered glass was mixed with albumen and snail slime to produce imitation pearls.

Earrings and Dress Jewelry

During the 17th century woman always wore earrings, whether they were dressed or undressed. It was very acceptable to wear faux pearls and paste gem earrings during the day saving fine diamond jewelry and gem jewelry for evening attire.

Dress ornamentation decreased in size. Sleeves or skirts were often decorated with matching brooches.

During the 16th it was very fashionable to wear large quantities of pearls. Both jewelry to clothing accessories were adorned with pearls.

During the 17th century Jaquin of Paris patented a method of making fake pearls. Hollow blown glass balls were coated with varnish mixed with iridescent ground fish scales. The hollow balls were then filled with wax to strengthen them. This discovery made Paris the main producer of faux pearls for well over 200 years.

Paste is a compound of glass containing white lead oxide and potash. Paste jewelry was very common in the later part of the 17th century. The highest quality and most long lasting paste jewelry was produced after 1734 by Georges Strass.

Paris lead the production of faux gems [paste] and faux pearls. Just about any kind of fake gem could be made, including fake opals.

After 1760 the production of fake jewelery spread to London and to Birmingham. During the industrial revolution steel was produced in large quantities so it was easily available. It was ues for setting marcasite and jasper ware cameos. Glass and Wedgwood porcelain paste cameos were made in English factories and were also very popular.

The fashion from this era also included ornate shoe buckles of paste, steel and tin, elaborate paste jewel buttons, as well as semi precious for day wear.

Empire Jewelry

In 1804 Napoleon emerged as Emperor of France, resulting in a revival of jewelry and fashion as a new court of pomp.

‘Joailliers’ worked fine jewelry and ‘bijoutiers’ used less precious materials.

The members of the new French imperial family had the former French royal family gems re-set into the latest neo-classical style. The new trends soon found their way to Europe, particularly England. The main influence for design was the Greek and Roman.

Parures and Cameos

Parures were a matching suite of coordinating precious gems which could include a necklace, a comb, a tiara, a diadem, a bandeau, a pair of bracelets, pins, rings, drop earrings or and cluster stud earrings and possibly a belt clasp.

A full parure consisted of a minimum of four pieces. A demi parure consisted of three or less pieces. Both Josephine and Napoleon’s second wife had magnificent parures.

Once Napoleon’s cameo decorated coronation crown was seen, cameos became the rage. Cameos were carved from hard stone, conch shells and even from Wedgwood porcelain.

Victorian Jewelry

In 1837 when Queen Victoria came to the throne jewelry was romantic and nationalistic. It focused on European folk art, which later influenced the Arts and Crafts Movement. Until mid century most western jewelry came from Europe, with some jewelry being produced in North America and Australia.

Mass production of mid Victorian jewelry in Birmingham, Germany and Providence, Rhode Island resulted in lower jewelry standards. Victorian women rebelled when they saw some the poor quality of much of this machine made jewelry.

Woman rebelled by wearing no jewelry at all, or buying from the emerging artist craftsman. Some jewelers like Tiffany recognized a niche market and began to make fine jewelry of a very high standard, opening shops in main European cities.

Mourning Jewelry

During the Victorian era mourning jewelry was very fashionable. The initial months of mourning were unadorned by jewelry of any kind. As the mourning rituals increased, mourning jewelry developed as a fashion item. Queen Victorian wore a great deal of jet mourning jewelry after Prince Albert’s death.

Jet from Whitby, North of England was set into mourning pieces. All types of material that were black were used and almost all included a lock of the dead loved one’s hair. Hair was also plaited, braided or twisted very tightly until it became hard and thread like.

Arts and Crafts Jewelry

During the 1870s the Arts and Crafts movement evolved as a reaction to mass produced shoddy goods and inferior machine made products which were a result of the industrial revolution.

William Morris and John Ruskin were both leaders of the arts and crafts movement in England. They promoted simple Arts and Crafts of designs based on floral, primitive or Celtic forms worked as wallpapers, furniture and jewelry.

The polished stones used in Arts and Crafts jewelry gave a medieval, simpler, gentler, tooled hand made look and feel to items.

Art Nouveau

The Art Nouveau followed the arts and crafts movement resulting in a new jewelry look. The movement began in Paris and its influence went throughout the Western world. Art nouveau jewelry had curves, sinuous organic lines of romantic and imaginary dreaminess.

It was very ethereal turning into winged bird and flower forms. French, René Lalique was the master goldsmith of the era of Art Nouveau producing exquisite one off pieces. Today, the Art Nouveau style is still admired, sought after, and copied.

Pearls

Various combinations of pearl necklaces come in and out of fashion with regularity so pearls too are a must. Today pearls are still a wardrobe essential. Both faux pearls and cultured pearls are very affordable today.

Since the opening of trade with China in the 1990s, many pearls are imported from China dropping the price to about 1/3 of what it was prior to China entering the market.

The Japanese have suffered disease in their pearl beds as well as facing competition and are finding it hard to compete with China’s prices.

Pearl necklaces and pearl earrings can lift a complexion and bring light and radiance to the face taking years off a woman whatever her age. They have been a wardrobe staple for centuries, and a wedding attire tradition.

Cultured pearls have become very affordable, and faux pearls are very cheap and the quality can be excellent. Currently Pearls are a very “hot” fashion statement and with the modern twist of being interspaced on gold wire or floating on special synthetic cord they are essential to the millennium look.

Cocktail Jewelry

During the 1920s Lalique mass produced and designed high quality glass jewelry. Fake, or costume jewellery was sometimes then called cocktail jewelry.

Costume or Cocktail jewelry was greatly influenced by designers such as Coco Chanel, and Elsa Shiparelli as well as a host of other designers. These two designers were particularly known for encouraging clients to mix their fine jewelry and costume jewelry. Both designers offered imagination and fun and both often sported fabulous fakes.

In the late 1930s Napier of the USA was at the forefront of manufacturing fake cocktail jewelry offer glamour and escapism. Today, Napier still produces excellent contemporary costume pieces.

Hollywood Influence

By the 1940s and 1950s American culture was very dominant in Europe. The influence of movie films and the prominence of film stars set the fashion stage for womens make-up, hair and wardrobe.

People wanted copies of outfits and jewelry worn by the actresses. Women believed that the glamour of Hollywood would rub off on them if they dressed and looked like the glamorous Hollywood actresses.

During the Second World War metals were rationed, halting the production of fine jewelry. Quality costume jewelry picked up the now defunct fine jewelry market. Costume jewelry flourished becoming an acceptable alternative to fine jewelry.

1980’s Television Influences Jewelry

During the 1980s with the evolution of glitzy television soaps such as Dynasty and Dallas, costume jewelry once again became a “hot” fashion statement. With over 250 million viewers, it didn’t take long for costume jewelry to be reborn.

Glitz and sparkle by day was not only acceptable, it became the norm. Earrings grew to an unbelievable size, as did other pieces of jewelry. By the 1990s this sparkly dazzling jewelry phenomena was dead, replace with tiny real diamond studs or a fine stud pearls.

21st Century Jewelry

For the 21st century women believe a mix is good. Fine jewelry combined with costume jewelry are wardrobe essentials. The sophisticated women of this century know what they want from their jewelry and how to wear it to make their fashion statement.

They recognize that costume jewelry can liven up their wardrobe. The types and quality of costume jewelry has grown enormously. Today one can purchase what is classified as fine costume jewelry which is usually plated at least seven times with 10 22 ct gold.

Swarovski crystal set in gold are common accessories, and cubic zirconium, man’s imitation diamond, can be purchased for a fraction of the cost of real diamonds allowing every women to add diamond styled jewelry to their wardrobe.

Ciro, Adrian Buckley, Butler and Wilson, Swarovski Crystal Jewelry Napier, Joan Rivers, Joan Collins, Christian Dior, California Crystal, Property of A Lady and of course Kenneth J Lane to name just a few continue to produce high quality fashion jewelry for today’s women.

Costume jewelry can take you from the board room to a night out of dining and dancing to your most intimate evening. It can make you look your best for your wedding, or a day at the beach. You can make Your Fashion Statement With Costume Jewelry!

Sher from Estate Jewelry International has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing fashion, jewelry, and wedding help. So stop by and visit us at http://www.estatejewelryinternational.com/ We’ll help you make your fashion statement! Remember looking good doesn’t have to cost a fortune!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sher_Matsen
http://EzineArticles.com/?Jewelry-from-3000-BC-Egypt-to-the-21st-Century&id=59804

Related posts:

1. How to Shop for Jewelry Online
2. Cleaning Your Jewelry
3. Bracelets From Then To Now

Children’s Jewellery is especially colourful and fun for all children to wear – our prices start from £3.99 for some hoop earrings. Children’s bracelets are available from £7.49, a range of Children’s pendants start at £8.49.

All our items come with our Delicate Dream’s branded jewellery boxes – to save money you can opt to remove the boxes reducing the price of our quality jewellery further.

Quick Children’s Jewellery Links

• Children’s Silver Jewellery
• Children’s Earrings
• Children’s Pendants
• Children’s Bracelets

Blue Topaz Heart Stud Earrings

Our Children’s Jewellery comes from a variety of suppliers such as Gecko which supplies several of our Silver Bracelets.

Children's Daisy Bracelet - Sterling SIlver

As with all of our items free shipping is available to all orders over £20.00 – if your order is below £20.00 then standard (First Class Signed For) delivery costs £1.95.

If you can’t find the Jewellery you want for your children then drop us an e-mail using the contact details on the website.  We can often source items on demand along with our regular re-stocking orders from our suppliers.  If it’s time-sensitive let us know and we will try our best to fulfil your dream.

Please note Children’s jewellery may consist of small pieces and should only be worn when children are supervised.  Earrings are not suitable to be worn during the initial piercing / healing process.

Related posts:

1. Delicate Dreams Software Upgrade and Google Checkout
2. Changes to Delicate Dreams Website
3. Christmas Sale comes to Delicate Dreams!

By Alison Cole

Children’s jewelry is a special category of jewels. A wide variety of jewels are available for kids of all age groups from infants to teenagers.

Jewelry for infants has always been popular. In some cultures, charms are used to protect babies from evil spirits. These are crafted in a particular way featuring guard animals such as the dog. Baby rings and bracelets make an ideal gift for a newborn. Baby jewelry is light and has delicate workmanship. It has smooth and rounded edges so that it does not harm tender baby skin. Baby jewelry is preserved as an heirloom in most families.

Girls love jewelry and are very choosy about it. Earrings are the most common jewelry that girls wear daily. Simple chains with dainty pendants are much sought after by girls. Bracelets and bangles are selected to match their attire. Girls prefer jewelry that’s crafted elegantly and is light to wear. Pearls are a favorite among girls.

Boys started wearing jewelry only in recent years. Bracelets with heavy links and wide-band watches were the first set of adornment used by boys. Now, tiepins, rings and chains are worn without hesitation.

Silver is used extensively in boys’ jewelry. Chains made of black rubber chord with a sterling silver pendant are popular among boys. Lovers of soccer enjoy soccer ball pendants and bracelets set in white gold. Crosses and St. Christopher pendants are examples of religious jewelry worn by both boys and girls.

Teenagers wear fashion jewelry to establish an identity for themselves. Any new trend lasts for about six months. Many teenagers like spiritual jewelry that uses healing stones, crystals, and other symbols of major religions. Some boys like to pierce just one ear and wear a small stud earring. Some teens sport a rugged look wearing jewelry made of leather, hemp and pewter. Gold jewelry is generally reserved for formal occasions.

Jewelry provides detailed information on jewelry, fashion jewelry, fine jewelry, religious jewelry and more. Jewelry is affiliated with Horse Hair Jewelry [http://www.e-horsejewelry.com].

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alison_Cole

http://EzineArticles.com/?Childrens-Jewelry&id=410840

Children’s Jewelry
By Alison Cole

Children’s jewelry is a special category of jewels. A wide variety of jewels are available for kids of all age groups from infants to teenagers.

Jewelry for infants has always been popular. In some cultures, charms are used to protect babies from evil spirits. These are crafted in a particular way featuring guard animals such as the dog. Baby rings and bracelets make an ideal gift for a newborn. Baby jewelry is light and has delicate workmanship. It has smooth and rounded edges so that it does not harm tender baby skin. Baby jewelry is preserved as an heirloom in most families.

Girls love jewelry and are very choosy about it. Earrings are the most common jewelry that girls wear daily. Simple chains with dainty pendants are much sought after by girls. Bracelets and bangles are selected to match their attire. Girls prefer jewelry that’s crafted elegantly and is light to wear. Pearls are a favorite among girls.

Boys started wearing jewelry only in recent years. Bracelets with heavy links and wide-band watches were the first set of adornment used by boys. Now, tiepins, rings and chains are worn without hesitation.

Silver is used extensively in boys’ jewelry. Chains made of black rubber chord with a sterling silver pendant are popular among boys. Lovers of soccer enjoy soccer ball pendants and bracelets set in white gold. Crosses and St. Christopher pendants are examples of religious jewelry worn by both boys and girls.

Teenagers wear fashion jewelry to establish an identity for themselves. Any new trend lasts for about six months. Many teenagers like spiritual jewelry that uses healing stones, crystals, and other symbols of major religions. Some boys like to pierce just one ear and wear a small stud earring. Some teens sport a rugged look wearing jewelry made of leather, hemp and pewter. Gold jewelry is generally reserved for formal occasions.

Jewelry provides detailed information on jewelry, fashion jewelry, fine jewelry, religious jewelry and more. Jewelry is affiliated with Horse Hair Jewelry [http://www.e-horsejewelry.com].

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alison_Cole

http://EzineArticles.com/?Childrens-Jewelry&id=410840

Related posts:

1. Sterling Silver Jewelry: The Standard For Quality, Reliability and Beauty