Through the ages beautiful jewelry has always played a role in society.Gold was always highly valued both as a store of value and as a metal uses in the production of jewelry and ornaments. In early times jewelry typically imitated natural objects , items such a shells , flowers and animals are quite common. Once craftsman were able to incorporate gemstones into their designs , you start to see changes in design style taking place. Pendants , necklaces , pendants , earrings and wreathes were very popular accessories amongst the elite who could afford these luxuries.

It was during medieval times that jewelry started to become more accessible to other social classes and not just the preserve of the nobility. Religious objects were popular during the medieval period. Jewelry became so accessible to the masses during this period that laws were enacted to restrict their access to jewelry.

The Reformation Period

Mass production started to take foot with the emphasis on enamels and even fake pearls. These objects were a substitute for more expensive jewelry and usually worn by folk during the day. Diamonds started to become more popular during this period. This was largely as a result of the use of the prong setting which reflected the natural brilliance of the diamond.

Victorian Period

During this period jewelry started to develop into an art form. Early Victorian era designs focused on dreams and emotions as artistic expression. A typical example of jewelry that reflects this trend is the popularity of mourning brooches that were popular during early Victorian times.

The US market started to import jewelry from Europe as mass production started to take place. Mass production resulted in the formation of Arts and Crafts guilds specialising in the production luxury high end jewelry designs.

20th Century

The Arts and Crafts movement evolved into the Art Nouveau movement that was popular during the early 20th century. Originating in France it quickly migrated to the US. Natural designs were the trend , with floral and female forms being quite popular amongst designers.  The Art Nouveau played a major role in influencing jewelry design to this day.

During the 1930s designers such as Coco Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli introduced the concept of accesorizing fashion jewelry with every day fashion. Vermeil and rhinstones became more popular in jewelry design.

The influence of Hollywood style and glamour began to make its mark during the 1950s and continues to this day.  Woman across the globe started to imitate the styles worn by stars on the big screen. during the babyboom era the burgeoning middle class stimulated the demand for consumer and luxury items resulting in greater demand for costume jewelry.

Modern fashion jewelry is inspired both by classical and trendy elements. Several celebrities have jumped on the band wagon and started their own jewelry lines. Fashion jewelry has developed into a billion dollar industry with styles being much more unpredictable and refreshing.

Modern jewelry production uses various techniques , materials and inspirations to produce and design the modern fashion jewelry that is popular today. Jewelry is no longer only sold in luxury jewelry stores , but can be purchased in large department stores , gift shops , boutiques and even online.

Nice fashion jewelry adds a certain sparkle to any outfit , for any occasion and is most importantly fun. Fun to wear , fun to collect and fun to shop for.