<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC '-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN' 'http://www.w3.org/TR/html4/loose.dtd'>; <html><head><title>Article Directory Online : Free Online Article Submission - Articleonlinedirectory | Jewelry Represents Rich Stories Of History Through The Ages</title></head><body><h3>Jewelry Represents Rich Stories Of History Through The Ages</h3><br /><br />By: <br /><br /><p>Since the dawn of civilization, jewelry has been a part of nearly every culture, even long before clothing was considered fashion. From its roots in early mystical religious symbols to the lavishness of royalty to objects of beauty for everyday wear, jewelry represents rich stories of history through the ages.<br /> <br /> Jewelry played an integral role in the lives ancient Egyptians. They were among the first to develop bronze, a mixture of tin and copper. By 2,500 B.C., Egyptians jewelry makers developed copper to a level that it was being used to create crowns and headdresses. Of course, gold was used ostentatiously in the burial rites of pharaohs and royalty. Goldsmiths were highly skilled artisans charged with the task of covering the mummified bodies of their rulers in huge quantities of gold and jewels. Sadly, over the centuries tomb raiders ransacked many Egyptian riches. Thankfully, the tomb of King Tut remained undisturbed until its discovery in the 20th century. Amulets, bracelets, earrings, rings, necklaces and more were found, representing the highest mark of skill achieved in wearable art.<br /> <br /> The Greeks' approach to jewelry closely resembled their approach to other forms of art, such as architecture and sculpture. Resembling miniature classic sculptures, the jewelry of the day were replete with mythological and historic symbolism. These motifs were represented in rings, earrings, pendants, and other pieces of jewelry. In one superior example, a complete chariot scene of drivers and horses is depicted in an earring.<br /> <br /> Always mindful of social class, jewelry was largely reserved for the upper class in Rome. Their use of gold was so extensive, it grew beyond jewelry and expanded into household items and furniture - making everyday life into objects d'art. The influence of surrounding cultures was borrowed in many things, including jewelry, as Rome's trade and wealth increased across the Empire. Their profuse use of colored stones was in contrast to previous cultures. Emeralds, rubies, sapphires and pearls were much-used gems of the day.<br /> <br /> During the Middle Ages, a return to simplicity brought jewelry out of the world of mythology to uncomplicated decoration. This decoration extended to both hair and clothing. The wearing of necklaces became more numerous, and it was often used to hold images of religious relics and saints.<br /> <br /> Think Renaissance and one immediately recognizes it as a time of high art. Jewelry took on the status of such, with designs and styles becoming much more elaborate. The value of jewelry lay in the workmanship, not just its use of gems and precious metals. With decadence at an all-time high, men and women used gems and gold in opulent displays, attempting to outdo the ornamentation of his or her neighbor.<br /> <br /> As metal and gem craftsmen realized improvements in their technique, jewelry took on added weight - literally. Popular motifs of the day included floral arrangements in enamel as well as diamonds and colorful gems. Men and women of the day sported these weighty pieces, displaying a colorful menagerie of adornment.<br /> <br /> With advancements in precious stone cutting, the 18th century saw an emphasis on displaying as much of the stone as possible. Also during this time, Brazilian diamonds enjoyed a swift trade in Europe, increasing their popularity. Jewelry became lighter and easier to wear.<br /> <br /> The 19th century saw affordability in silver thanks to advances in technology. There was plenty of silver to go around with places such as Virginia City, where the silver boom days of the Comstock Lode produced millions of dollars worth of silver over the century. The Industrial Revolution brought about mass production of jewelry, making it affordable to nearly everyone. The lower class could enjoy wearing jewelry, thanks to the affordable cost of imitation stones.<br /> <br /> Louis Comfort Tiffany, Henry Wilson and others were driving forces behind the evolution of jewelry in the early 20th century. The Arts and Crafts movement brought about a revival of craftsmanship in retaliation of mass production. Art Nouveau, or new art, became the bridge between the 19th and 20th centuries. The prestigious Tiffany and Co. greatly influenced the look of jewelry, as well as the decorative arts.<br /> <br /> After-effects of the war and reaction to the decadence of the Roaring 20s lead again to simpler forms of jewelry. Popularly called Art Deco, this simplified approach brought about unique styles and forms. Plastics and aluminum were also introduced, Following World War II, the modern jewelry movement took hold, with advancements in coloring techniques, increased variety of styles, and a blending of cultures. Today, innovation, individuality and art all combine to offer jewelry wearers more choices than ever before.</p> <br /><br /><b>Author Resource:-></b> Lewis Jewelers is proud to carry the full line of <a href=http://www.LewisJewelers.com/pandora_bracelets/>Pandora Jewelry</a>. <a href=http://www.LewisJewelers.com>Pandora charms</a>, Pandora bracelets and Pandora beads are only a part of the collection. For more information, Lewis Jewelers, 2000 West Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48103, 877-88-LEWIS or visit the website.<br /><br /><b>Article From</b> <a href='http://www.articleonlinedirectory.com/'>Article Directory Online : Free Online Article Submission - Articleonlinedirectory</a><br /></body></html>
