A Brief History of Gold Part 3

Welcome to part 3 of a brief history of gold. For parts 1 click here; for part 2 click here.

Historically, gold may have been maintained by the well-to-do, but that has never stopped the rest of the world from trying to acquire it.

Early gold craftsmanship was crude and rough. Ancient techniques consisted of simple chasing and repousse work as done by the Indians and Egyptians. Jewelry craftsmanship became more complex in the Roman era as artisans began to experiment with more techniques that further elevated gold as a status symbol. Filigree, soldering, piercing, granulation and casting began to add further complexity to a precious metal that had no equal.

The jewelry worn during the successive ages, including the Medieval and Renaissance periods, reflected an intense hierarchical and status-conscious society. Royalty and nobility were among the only members of society who could be found with gold, silver or precious gems. Gold made up the fine estate jewelry of the times including vintage engagement rings and other types of antique jewelry. Lower ranks of society adorned themselves with cheaper materials including beads, shells, or easier to find base metals like pewter and copper.

Pure gold was difficult to find and secure, especially for the lower classes of society who wished to adorn themselves like lords and magistrates. Families who did not belong to the wealthy merchant class oftentimes did not have jewelry that was passed on from generation to generation, as we see multigenerational lineages doing now. However, gold rushes in the 17th, 18th and early 19th centuries allowed individuals, irrespective of status, an opportunity to enrich their lives. If one got to the site early enough, before competitors got a chance to deplete the region, an individual could sift for gold with low startup capital.  The discovery of gold in Australia (1851), California (1848), and South Africa (1886) spurred worldwide travel, industry booms, and large investments of capital. Sometimes prospectors got rich, other times they failed to turn a profit. One geological theory (see part 2) states that all the gold on the earth came from space, making it difficult to spot and secure. One thing is for certain, we will keep looking.

Beautiful Vintage Jewelry for the Modern Bride

Marriage is one of the most memorable occasions in a young woman’s life. On the day of her wedding she wants to look and feel like the most gorgeous girl on the planet. She wants to choose the best outfit as well as the most stylish ornaments to look outstanding. There are some brides who want to not only look stylish and modern but also unique. They want their wedding to be special. Thus, they prefer vintage jewelry instead of more contemporary pieces. They know that these pieces can help them look gorgeous and attractive.

Vintage, Antique and Estate

It is very easy to dream of wearing antique jewelry on that special day, but it is tough to get the genuine products if you do not have any prior knowledge. You need not start learning the history of fashion and jewelry to purchase these items for the marriage, but you do have to have a general knowledge of what you’re buying.

In the jewelry industry, a piece that is more than 25 years old can be considered vintage jewelry. On the other hand, a piece that is 100 years old can be called antique. Be aware of the difference, because generally, the older the piece of jewelry the more expensive it will be. Of course, the stone and materials that went into making the piece of estate jewelry will be considered as well, but age is important. It can take gemologists and restoration specialists hundreds of hours of work to find these pieces and restore them back to their original beauty.

Find Your Next Wedding Jewelry Online

If you’re still wondering about what to do next, don’t worry. There are plenty of reputable online stores that sell vintage, antique, and estate jewelry. The best thing you can do to ease your mind is to speak to an expert today.

There are online stores that sell vintage collections and also help you get a better understanding of the various eras and their fashion trends. In no time you’ll be looking your best. And on your final day, as the sunlight dances across your white gown, and the vintage earrings catch the light of onlookers at your wedding, you’ll be ready to say “I do!”