Tom B

One attribute that differentiates humans from other animals is our ability to understand symbolism. Symbols have been an important aspect of jewelry virtually since the first proto-human put a string and a shell together, and symbols remain an important motif in today’s ornamental wear. One symbol often used in rings, earrings and pendants is the Claddagh — two hands holding a crowned heart between them. This Irish symbol has come to represent a range of affiliations, from friendship to marriage. Jim Morrison, legendary singer of the 60’s band The Doors, helped popularize the design as a wedding band. The elements are said to represent love, friendship and loyalty. While the design originated in the 1600’s, it is no doubt an extrapolation of earlier motifs. The name comes from the Irish village of the same name.
Another popular design is the Celtic knot, either as a raised pattern on a sold background or as intertwined gold threads without backing. The design can be traced back at least as far as monk’s illuminated texts such as the Book of Kells dating back to the 8th century.As you might expect, the knot motif has always been associated with attachment and devotion, and therefore is often used in wedding bands. Artisans continue to enjoy pushing the boundaries of intricacy with the knot design. A favorite extrapolation of the knot theme is the ribbon and bow, a festive design that is particularly appropriate for holiday wear.
Continuing on the Irish theme, another design often given in friendship is the clover, or shamrock. The three-lobed design hearkens back to St. Patrick’s conversion of the Irish in the 400’s, when it is said he adopted the shamrock to represent the Holy Trinity.
A design that transcends any single country is the heart, familiar to us all as the ultimate symbol of love, as well as a container for fine chocolates. The heart as the foundation of human qualities, both good and not-so-good, can be traced back to the earliest passages of the Bible, and plays an equally important role in other ancient religions. The fact that our heart symbol does not really resemble the human heart has led some to propose that it represents Eros, the love bound with fertility. A less complex interpretation suggests it derives from the outline of a kissing couple.
Religious symbols have always been popular in jewelry. In the west, the cross has been cast and forged into innumerable variations. Other symbols such as the yin-and-yang of Zen Buddhism, representing the harmony of the male and female principles, are also common themes for rings, pendants, bracelets and earrings.
Finally, we see a number of designs based on nature. Flower rings, with the delicate petals of roses often reproduced in pink gold, are particularly attractive. Interwoven vines or wheat berry designs are the perfect ornamentation on running designs such as bands or bracelets.
The joy of symbol jewelry comes from the understanding that the giver intends the recipient to understand that his regard, devotion, friendship and/or love is as immutable as gold. Quite a message from such a small but pretty gift!

Sheri L

Jewelry is a popular gift choice that can fit into every special occasion. Not only is it beautiful and romantic, jewelry endures while flowers and candy are soon gone. You don’t have to spend a fortune to find the perfect piece of thoughtful jewelry. Whether you decide on heart shapes, sentimental engraving or red, violet or pink gemstones for your loved one, be sure you make your gift unique and personal.

Perfect Presentation

A heart-shaped locket pendant necklace is classically romantic, but is still unique and personalized when you take the time to fit special photographs inside and have a sentimental engraving done on the back of the pendant. Smaller jewelry items such as a ring, a charm, cuff links or stud earrings can be carefully wrapped in tissue paper and strategically placed along with the pieces of candy in a heart-shaped box of chocolates.
If a light-hearted approach is the way to your loved one’s heart, caboodles of candy conversation hearts surrounding a piece of jewelry in the presentation box can make for a fun surprise when the box is opened. If the color of the jewelry suits it, you can use red cinnamon candy hearts in the box if you’re looking for a more dramatic and elegant statement. A gift of a charm can be playfully romantic when it’s accompanied by a hand-made card written by the recipient’s “Prince Charming.”

Hearts and Flowers

When buying heart-shaped jewelry, consider your love’s style. Would she prefer the sparkly elegance of a pave heart, the classic appeal of a puffed heart or the modern appeal of a twisted, freeform heart? Think about her favorite jewelry for clues about metal color as well as style. Besides heart-shaped pendants, rings and earrings, you may also want to consider a heart-shaped watch or a bracelet with a heart motif.
If your loved one loves flowers, you can give lasting flowers in the form of jewelry. Floral-motif necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings and more are available in many different styles and price ranges. Floral engraving can also be added to the outside of plain rings or pendants and you may want to include both your own and your loved one’s initials into the pattern for a custom design.
Romantic Colors

If your love adores red, you can opt for a ruby, garnet or red cubic zirconium, depending on your budget. If your sweetie prefers pink, consider rose quartz, cubic zirconium or pink tanzanite. Purple tanzanite is a pretty possibility for those with a passion for purple. Amethysts may be a welcome alternative for those with February birthdays since amethyst is a popular birthstone for this month.
What if the piece of jewelry you have your eye on is not a color traditionally associated with romance? In that case, a little creativity and heartfelt sentiment on your part can turn it into a thoughtful and memorable gift. For example, you can give a blue sapphire, or other blue gemstone, piece with the message “I feel blue without you.”