March 8th is International Women’s Day, and this year we are not only celebrated being a female led business, but women’s history.
Jewellery has historically been used as a tool for women’s self expression and empowerment - something which was especially important in times where women’s rights were not recognised.
Ancient Egyptian Scarab ornament featuring semi-precious stones - Approx. 1897BC-1878BC (Source: British Museum)
The ancient Egyptians believed that jewellery, especially those that featured precious stones, held magical powers and would protect against evil spirits. This isn’t too far from modern beliefs, with many believing in the protective powers of different semi-precious stones.
We have our own collection of jewellery designs featuring semi-precious gems, such as Moonstone which is known to represent hope, dreams and new beginnings. Protection and positivity energy is also believed to be found in Black Tourmaline - an illustrious bodyguard stone.
Victorian Memorial Bracelet and brooch, circa. 1837 (Source: Cooper Hewitt)
Sentimental pieces became popular in the Victorian Era, with the introduction of mourning jewellery - worn to commemorate passed loved ones. This is a sentiment that has carried on through history, even if it is not as explicit nowadays.
Meaningful motifs are used throughout modern jewellery design, including our own collections, and can be cherished and given many different meanings. For example, our collection of jewellery designs featuring our My Guardian Angel charm. We have had a multitude of messages from customers telling us what the Angel means to them. It can be a reminder of a loved one who has passed, or as a symbol of being safely watched over.
In the 20th Century, jewellery started to become a bigger symbol of personal and financial independence, with women beginning to have their own money. Post-war, women had their own disposable income for the first time - this gave them the means to express themselves through their jewellery choices.
This social shift, alongside technical advancements, saw a rise in the popularity of everyday jewellery pieces featuring sentimental engravings. Reflected in the trend of wedding bands featuring engraved dates or quotes, and pendants being personalised with engraved initials.
Our jewellery is founded in sentimental and meaningful designs, which are made even more special by the option for personalised engravings on specified pieces.
It is amazing to think that every piece of jewellery we wear now was in one way or another inspired by the women who came before us. So thank you to the women in history and the women of today, who inspire us daily!