Different Types of Jewelry
Beads:
As timeless as they are, it is no surprise that beads are here with us to stay because they are the oldest form of jewelry known to man. Archaeologists have discovered bead work that is more than 100,000 years old, created using the shells of sea snails and this is believed to be the very first type of jewelry made. Today, beads come in a rainbow of colors, sizes that range from a millimeter to over a centimeter in diameter, and a range of shapes only limited by the human imagination. Materials used to make beads are a large part of determining their value. There are beads made from synthetic materials such as resin or plastic, but there are also beads that come from natural materials such as plant fibers, horn or shell and even gemstones.
Bridal Jewelry:
While most people understand that a marriage ceremony will involve the exchange of wedding rings, it is true that there are quite a few more options that can be included in a ceremony, traditional or otherwise. Cufflinks are becoming increasingly more popular for groomsmen and more brides are offering pendants to their bride’s maids. While diamonds are the traditional jewel chosen for wedding rings, peal is the most often utilized gem for bride’s jewelry such as chokers, other necklaces and even pearl earrings. Some couples even exchange rings or pendants which feature their birthstones as a symbol of what they each bring to the union.
Gemstones:
Gemstones, also known as jewels, are precious or semi precious stones prized for their high level of visual attractiveness, typically centered around their color, shape, luster or ability to interact with light and sparkle. These are the stones that make up the bulk of jewelry made today and they include many common stones you may know such as diamonds, rubies, emeralds or topaz, as well as lesser known stones such as jet, amber, peridot or tanzanite. The value of these stones fluctuates over time as their mining becomes easier or more difficult and also in accordance with their current level of rarity.
Hand crafted:
The history of hand crafted jewelry is a fascinating one that extends far beyond any recorded history thanks to what archaeologists have been able to unearth. As far back as 100,000 years ago, humans were fashioning the earliest jewelry using sea shells. In ancient times, jewelry was often crafted due to a belief that it could give the wearer extra powers or protection from evil spirits. In today’s world, the level of skill and time invested in created hand crafted jewelry gives it a strong sentimental value, as well as a high monetary value since this is not a craft than many practice.