It is universally accepted that jewelry is the perfect choice of gift for expressing love. Fine jewelry, especially, has meaning beyond adornment; the permanence of noble metals and the mystically properties of precious gemstones convey unbreakable bonds and eternal affection. Antique, vintage and estate jewelry adds extra dimensions to the intention behind gifts of fine jewelry. These pieces carry the stories, adventures and experiences of those who have worn them in the past, and are more deeply connected to the origins of their creation.
Image courtesy of Daniella Engelbert
Heart shape jewelry is probably the most enduring expression of love. Dating back to ancient Egypt, hearts were given as symbols of devotion and protegctive amulets. During her reign, Queen Victoria popularized heart shaped lockets. At U.S. Antique Show events, hearts of all sizes and materials from all eras can be discovered.
Image courtesy of Lucas Botz Photography
Image courtesy of Lucas Botz Photography
Queen Alexandrina Victoria reigned from 1837-1901 and had influences on every aspect of British arts and culture. The weight of her reign was such that the three distinct periods of the era directly reflect the vast changes that occurred in her personal life.
The Romantic period was steeped in tradition and was marked by the prolific love of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Jewelry produced in this time showcased religious themes or was given as a token of love from one lover to another. Serpents were extremely popular during the romantic period; Queen Victoria evidentially loved serpents, and the gold, coiled snake engagement ring she received from her beloved was among many serpents in her jewelry box and symbolized everlasting love.
Image courtesy of Lucas Botz Photography
While serpent jewelry from the Victorian era is especially charming and carries the mystic of the past, its a stalwart theme of chic pieces across generations. The many evolutions of the BULGARI Serpenti bracelet, originally launched in 1948, being one stunning example.
Image courtesy of Lucas Botz Photography
A more recent story from the annals of (bejeweled) romantic history dates back to 1969, when Aldo Cipullo was awake at 3am, heartsick after a breakup. In his weepy state of insomnia, the then designer for Tiffany & Co. thought up the idea for the now iconic Love Bangle. The “permanent” cuff bracelet is shaped like an oval to fit snuggly on one’s wrist, and the unisex design is secured with a miniature vermeil screwdriver, with which one can secure the bracelet on a lover’s wrist, where the intention is that it remain forever. When Tiffany passed on the design, Aldo pitched the idea to Cartier, who saw the inherent genius in it and put it into production.
Image courtesy of Lucas Botz Photography
Beyond motifs, color is another strong indicator of affection, with hues of reds, pinks and purples the most Valentine’s worthy. Rubies, in particular, are known as the stone of passion, vitality and protection and are said to be associated with the heart chakra, encouraging love in all who wear them.
Image of Paul Fisher jewelry courtesy of Lucas Botz Photography.
