Fine Jewelry Forms And Functions
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. These pieces have played significant roles in shaping some of the most important traditions we know of. 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 used as adornments, while others are used as symbolic tokens for certain occasions. There are also pieces that are inexpensive and simple in finish, while other articles are very expensive and made from the finest materials. Some of the most popular and commonly used pieces would be discussed here to provide further understanding about their qualities and uses. Rings are perhaps the most common forms of ornamental jewelry. These jewelry pieces may come in the form of plain cylindrical bands as seen from wedding rings ornamented with precious stones like diamond heart setting, spiral or serpentine coils, signet rings, and open on one side. Rings are used for differing purposes but usually they serve as symbolic tokens given during special events like betrothals and weddings, or just to highlight one's fingers. As for signet rings, these hoops are customized to carry the emblems of fraternal orders or insignias of some organizations and are worn by the members of such organizations.
Another type of jewelry is the necklace, which is intended designed to be 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 made of different precious metals, gemstones, raw materials or a combination of these items, and are commonly used together with pendants that are made of precious stones; the most of popular of which is the diamond heart pendant. 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. The most favorite form of earrings set against the earlobe is the pair of pearls, while popular hanging drops are the ones referred to as chandelier earrings. Traditionally, it is a requisite to have the ears pierced when wearing earrings as this practice was once considered a barbaric act. Currently, earrings can be worn either through piercing the ears or just by clipping the said jewelry.
Another form of fine jewelry usually designated on the arm is the bracelet. Such large piece of ring-like jewelry can be in the form of closed band, spiral coil, open on one side, closed with clasp as well as flexible rings formed as links. Other than the outlined pieces, there are still many more jewelry pieces found in the market such as pins, cuff links, anklets, chains, brooches, and collar buttons. All in all, articles of jewelry vary in terms of function, design and quality; it is within the discretion of the wearer where he or she would like to use these pieces.
Fine jewelry like necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings are commonly used as personal adornments. However, they can also be used to signify societal status, as a form of currency, symbolism as well as artistic display. They can be made from precious metals set with gemstones just like a diamond heart setting and may come in varying finishes depending on the wearers preference.
Published July 25th, 2010
Filed in Women