Common Types Of Fine Jewelry
The visual appeal of fine jewelry has never ceased to arrest our interest. As a matter of fact, jewelry pieces are sometimes perceived as the determining factor of societal status especially during the ancient times. They have significantly shaped many traditions that we know today. From necklaces and earrings, to rings and bracelets, these jewelry pieces have provided humans with material satisfaction that no other objects could provide.
There are many types of fine jewelry pieces to choose from. Some are worn as adornments, while others serve as symbolic tokens presented in different occasions. There are also pieces that are inexpensive and simple in finish, while other articles are very expensive and made from the finest materials. Below are some of the most common articles of jewelry available in the market as well as their qualities and purposes. Rings are perhaps the most common articles of jewelry that almost all of us are familiar with. They are widely available in several varieties; they may come as plain cylindrical bands commonly seen in wedding rings adorned with gemstones such as diamond heart setting, spiral or serpentine coils, signet rings, and open on one side. Rings have different functions but they are commonly used as symbolic tokens during engagements and weddings or just to accentuate the fingers. In the case of signet rings, they commonly bear the emblems of fraternal orders or other organizational insignias.
Another popular type of jewelry is the necklace which is worn around the neck. Necklaces come in four general structures: close fitting collar band accentuated with precious gems or beads, chain necklace with pendant, raw of beads or stones in graduated sizes held by wire or chains, and strings of different lengths worn on top of each other. Necklaces can be constructed from different materials that include metals, gemstones or combination of the two, and they are best worn with pendants of precious stones, the diamond heart pendant being one of the most popular design. In order to highlight necklaces, they are worn with tops or dresses that have low necklines, as this clothing finish diverts the attention of people towards the neck where the said jewelry is hanged.
Meanwhile, earrings are articles of jewelry used for the ears that could be set against the earlobes or are left as dangling drops. One of the favorite forms of earrings set on the ear lobes are large pearls, while most popular hanging earrings are the ones called chandelier earrings. Traditionally, the use of earrings requires ear piercings as the practice of wearing such jewelry was once regarded as a barbarous act. Today however, earrings can be worn without the need for piercings, and instead they could just be clipped to the ears.
Another type of fine jewelry is the bracelet, which is worn on the arm. This piece can be in the form of closed band, spiral coils, open on one side, closed with clasps or flexible rings made from several links. Other than the aforementioned pieces, there are other types of jewelry that one may encounter in the market including pins, cuff links, anklets, chains, brooches, and collar buttons to name a few. Generally, there are many jewelry pieces that vary in function, quality and design; it is already up to the individual what jewelry to use in accordance to his or her desired function.
In creating fine jewelry articles, metals, gemstones, coins as well as other materials are utilized though they are commonly set into precious metals, accentuated with gemstones like diamond heart. Aside from their ornamental purpose, jewelry pieces have long been used throughout history as symbolic tokens given during occasions especially during weddings and betrothals. They were also used to denote power and status in many societies.
Published July 25th, 2010
Filed in Women