The art of jewelry-making originated in
prehistoric times when primitive people used
objects from the animal world—such as horn,
shell, and feathers—to adorn themselves. Cave
paintings and carvings show figures decorated
with bracelets, necklaces, and headdresses. Since
then many forms of jewelry have evolved, so that
there is hardly a part of the body for which an
ornamental form has not been created. Arms and
legs have been festooned variously with
bracelets, rings, shoe buckles, and ankle
bracelets; the head with tiaras, earrings, and
combs; and the chest and neck with broaches,
necklaces, belts, and breastplates. Traditionally
jewelry has been a sign of social rank and a
symbol, often of luck or good fortune.
Probably the most widely used and highly prized
material for jewelry making is gold. Its
malleability, value, and color make it ideal for a
wide range of uses. Gold sheets can be
embossed, engraved, pressed, or pierced into
decorative forms, and gold wire can be used to
join jewels together or to make chains. The
other most commonly used components of
jewelry are precious and semiprecious stones.
Diamonds have traditionally been the most
highly prized of such gems, varying in color from
yellow to bluish white and sometimes reaching
enormous size. The brilliant cut, which with its
myriad facets best shows the characteristic
sparkle of a diamond, was invented in the 17th
century. Judging by the descriptions above, this
ring is the archetype of jewelry combining the
most prized materials together. The natural
materials are allowed to shine in all their
luminous glory. This ring is truly a classic that
would be treasured as such wherever, or
whenever, people choose to adorn themselves.
- (FJ.6853)
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