Symbolism and Sentimentality in Handmade Jewelry

Adornment is more than a fashion statement; it expresses cultural identity and social status. Traditional cultures use symbolic adornments, from beads to piercings, to convey meaningful messages.

For instance, a gold ring communicates wealth and power, while signet rings signal fraternity or social order. Jewelry can also be used to celebrate milestones, such as birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and weddings.

Heart Design

The heart design in handmade jewelry is more than just a style statement; it conveys meaningful sentimentality. From birthstones that represent loved ones to charms that capture significant moments, the symmetrical shape of hearts instantly draws attention and creates visual harmony.

Heart-shaped earrings and necklaces make thoughtful gifts for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, and other special occasions. Despite the traditional connections to love, these pieces also promote self-love and empowerment, a reminder to prioritize one’s well-being and embrace self-compassion.

Some people view a heart with Cupid’s arrow as romantic, but it can be interpreted to mean love in any form. Open hearts symbolize love for others and oneself, allowing love to enter your life quickly. Each interpretation of the heart shape allows you to tell a story unique to your journey. Whether you’re looking for a simple heart pendant or something more intricate, choose a piece that best represents your story.

Anniversary Ornaments

An artisan jewelers has worked with custom adornment that holds cultural significance and sentiment. One type of artisanal jewelry is called acrostic jewels, which use gem-set stones to spell out a message. This style was popular in the 1830s-50s and used gems to convey essential dates like birthdays, marriages, and deaths.

To celebrate your sixth anniversary, give your partner an adornment that symbolizes enduring love. A matched string of pearls is a beautiful option, or try something more substantial like an amethyst pendant necklace (which also makes a good gift for February birthdays).

Copper is the traditional metal for the seventh wedding anniversaries, and there are many lovely options from which to choose. Consider a textured copper bracelet cuff, hammered copper earrings, or a double corrugated copper ring. A vibrant blue lapis lazuli gemstone represents courage, intelligence, and truth — all qualities that help make a strong relationship last. This gemstone is also the traditional gift for the ninth anniversary, so it’s an excellent choice for couples reaching double digits in their relationship.

Birthstone Ornaments

Whether you’re looking for a unique holiday ornament or gift for someone born in the month, a handmade gemstone ornament can be just the right choice. Many birthstones have a symbolic meaning that is linked to their unique properties.

For instance, pearls symbolize purity and steadfastness. They also remind us of timeless elegance and beauty. Pearls can be worn by anyone who wants to embrace their calming and clarifying qualities that foster serenity during life’s ebbs and flows.

Aquamarine, the modern September birthstone, has clear links to seawater and is associated with harmony and serenity.

Graduation Ornaments

Graduation is an important life milestone. Gifting a graduate a piece of jewelry can help honor their achievements and mark the occasion for years to come. A grad student might appreciate a classic pendant necklace, stud earrings, or a custom ring. A new professional might enjoy a stylish watch, a look-defining bracelet, or an elegant birthstone ornament.

Create a one-of-a-kind graduation ornament with some time and craft supplies. Ornament bases are available in many shapes and sizes, including snowflakes, trees, and stars. Slide beads directly onto the pre-formed wire, or follow an award-winning design tutorial to create a beaded frame using colorful Zebra Wire(TM). Embellish your ornaments further with Apoxie Sculpt, Gilders Paste(r) and more.

Honor your favorite graduates with a personalized ornament that captures their accomplishments. Add their name, class year, school colors, and more to create a keepsake they can hang on their tree each Christmas.