The History of St. Valentine's Day — and how jewelry got involved
They built structures that still bring throngs of tourists from around the globe, and the ancient Romans may also be responsible for the name of our modern day of love. Emperor Claudius II executed two men — both named Valentine — on Feb. 14 of different years in the 3rd century A.D. Their martyrdom was honored by the Catholic Church with the celebration of St. Valentine's Day. Even earlier, the Romans celebrated Lupercalia, a fertility festival celebrated between February 13 and February 15 — talk about a celebration of love!
How jewelry became a part of Valentine's Day
I learned even more about the history of St. Valentine's Day from Estates in Time. (Go over and read it! You won't be disappointed.) It shouldn't surprised anyone that small love notes and tokens of affection have been part of the holiday since it began.
What I didn't really know prior to my little bit of research was how large of a role the Industrial Revolution played in adding jewelry to the list of appreciated Valentine's Day gifts. The metal press made it possible for jewelry to be worn by everyone, not just the upper tier of society. Since that time, jewels make up an important part of romantic gift-giving, and Valentine's Day is no exception.
Jada Jo Jewelry and Valentine's Day
As you know, the handcrafted jewelry at Jada Jo can stimulate specific chakras and offers its wearer certain carried through the properties of gemstones. I've often suggested the Amor Bracelet as a Valentine's Day piece, in part because of the striking detail in the feather — a symbol of good luck! — and the loving properties of rose quartz. The bracelet is currently sold old, but I'd love to chat with you about a similar custom piece.
Love, jewelry, and a connection to Bali
When I read Elizabeth Gilbert's Eat, Pray, Love, I found myself falling in love right alongside her as she fell in love in Bali. When I visited Bali, I observed so many different love stories unfolding, and I felt compelled to create something that could honor the love I saw there. I called the bracelet and necklace set Cinta, the Balinese word for love.
The set combines red and pink gemstones, two colors emblematic of love. The pink sapphire pendant in the necklace signifies an elegant type of power while stimulating feelings of love, especially when worn near the heart. The rubies harness positivity, self-confidence and love. Whether you're dropping hints to a partner that you would like to receive Cinta, you're purchasing for a girlfriend who needs a little extra love in her life, or you're looking to be your own Valentine, you won't regret bringing Cinta home.
Do you celebrate St. Valentine's Day?
Leave a comment
Comments will be approved before showing up.
Also in Blog
Jada Jo: A Five-Year Journey
Exploring Birthstones: Diamond
