Many of the Garnet Legends down through history tell of a relationship between the gem and the fruit pomegranate. So much so the gemstone’s name comes from the Latin word “granatum“. Which means many seeds while also describing the fruit seeds of a pomegranate. Dating back as far as the Bronze Age between 3000 and 2001 […]
As the Georgian era came to a close, England was in the midst of political and social change. Along with a strong religious drive for high moral standards. While the start of the Victorian Age came with Queen Victoria’s rise to power at the young age of 18 in 1837. The era brought an increased […]
December Birthstones are a mixture of new and old with the newest discovery of Tanzania as well as the oldest stone Zircon. Yet mysteries, legends, and fables still shroud the stories behind these jewels. All bearing unique shades of Blue. The color of December since 1912. Historically the Bloodstone and Ruby had been the gems for the month of December since the 15th-century. Then […]
The evolution of jewelry from the depression and years of war into that of the 1950’s costume jewelry was a direct reflection of lifestyles and social trends during the era. America had just survived two decades of turmoil and now it was time to rebuild. The 1950’s were full of change and prosperity. As soldiers returned from […]
As with the other gemstones I have reviewed November’s birthstones, Topaz and Citrine are no strangers to legends and folklore. Dating back thousands of years. However, it is important to remember during these ancient times the names given to jewels spoke more about color than mineral makeup. In fact, its quite possible these two gems […]
The production of Georgian Era Jewelry spans 123 years from 1714 to 1837. During the reign of five English Monarchs, George the I, II, III, IV and King William the IV. Although the era derives its name from the English Crown. Cultural influences across Europe played integral roles in the styles and designs of this period. […]
As we enter into the month of Halloween and embrace the Fall season. It is only fitting October’s Birthstones should display rainbows of colors. The mystical Opal bursting with vibrate flashes while the Tourmaline answers with its own array of magic. We can only imagine the thoughts of the first early human to gaze upon an […]
While many labeled Rhode Island as the Jewelry Capital of the World during the industries heyday. Manufacturers still dot the tiny state today. In Providence, Rhode Island the area is simply referred to as “The District”. A patch of real estate, roughly 19 acres in downtown. Which became home to some of the biggest names in […]
Written about in the text of many religions, mysterious Sapphire folktales and legends date to 1000 BC. While the sapphire comes in many colors, ancient beliefs mostly center upon the deep blue gemstones. Also known as Kashmir or Cornflower. Such as the rough Sapphire photographed by Gèry Parent above, Throughout history, these beautiful jewels have inspired fascination […]
While looking back at the styles and trends of vintage men’s jewelry in the 1900’s. It is easy to understand some of the more popular cliches. Such as the line in ZZ Top’s famous song “‘Cause every girl crazy ’bout a sharp dressed man”. The men’s fashion of yesterday was far more sophisticated. Whereas today’s […]