Jewelry has left a significant mark on society dating back to ancient times. In ancient civilizations, gold was considered a preferred luxury metal because it did not tarnish and could be molded. The jewelry personified natural forms such as shells, plant life, and animals. Significant advances in style became increasingly apparent with the setting of pearls and precious stones in brilliant metals. Jewelry was worn in the form of necklaces, bracelets, pendants, earrings, and crowns.
During the Middle Ages, jewelry was widely adorned and worn by various levels of society. Brooches, pendants and pins with religious motifs were very popular in this period. Jewelry became so popular that sumptuary laws were created to limit the wearing of gold and silver jewelry at the lowest levels of society.
15th – 17th centuries
Faux pearls and enamels became increasingly acceptable and were mass-produced. These items were typically worn during the day as a substitute for finer jewelry. Fine jewelry was kept for the night. Diamonds also increased in popularity. The invention of the prong setting enhanced the brilliance of the diamond; therefore, expanding its charm with the upper classes.
Victorian era
The Victorian era was a major breakthrough for jewelry as an art form. Artistic expression became more apparent in fashion and jewelry. The early Victorian years are known as the romantic period. The romantic period emphasized dreams and emotions as inspiration for artistic expression. Morning brooches were a staple of this period. A loved one’s hair was woven into a pin, pendant, or brooch to make sentimental jewelry.
The mass production of jewelry diminished its luster with the Victorians when the importation of jewelry from North America to Europe began; thus, the beginning of the Arts and Crafts movement.
The arts and crafts guilds were smaller associations of jewelers, but they provided higher quality jewelry and intricate art designs.
early 20th century
The Art Nouveau movement was derived from the Arts and Crafts movement. It started in Paris and spread to North America. Asymmetrical and flowing lines inspire natural designs. Among these natural designs, floral and feminine shapes were very popular. This period has a continuing influence on jewelry design.
1930 to 1940
The revival of mass-produced jewelry followed the Art Nouveau Movement. This type of jewelry was meant to be used selectively as an accessory to specific outfits. Two designers, Coco Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli, designed the combination of fine jewelry and costume jewelery accessories with everyday fashion. Vermeil jewelry was popular, but in short supply due to the war efforts. The popularity of rhinestones increased.
1950
The influence of Hollywood extravagance and glamor spread to all continents. Engraved with him was costume jewelry on the silver screen. The styles and looks of the stars spread rapidly and were widely accepted all over the world. The rise of the middle class in the United States increased the demand for costume jewelry. This encouraged technical advances in mass production methods.
The current era has brought a creative culmination of styles to fashion jewelry, both timeless and modern. Many celebrities have jumped on the wave by designing their own lines. Tori Spelling and Suzanne Somers are among a few. The fashion jewelry industry is now a multi-billion dollar industry.
Jewelry is much more eclectic in today’s age. Pieces are made of many different stones, textures, colors, various lengths, or metals. Jewelry is sold in department stores, restaurants, gift shops, jewelry parties, and boutiques.
Fashion jewelry adds a touch of pizzazz to appeal no matter the occasion. Most importantly, fashion jewelry is fun! It’s fun buying jewelry, selling jewelry, collecting jewelry, and of course, displaying jewelry.