The Value of Renaissance Costume Jewelry   by David L

in Hobbies / Crafts    (submitted 2011-07-05)

Renaissance fine jewelry was worn as a means of decoration, but had lots of meaning as well. Much of the inspiration behind these works of art were nature, life experiences and religion. Some of them were very simple depending on the gems and stones that were used, but could be very elaborate in design.

Renaissance jewelry covered a broad range of materials. Pearls in brooches, earings, necklaces and collars of office were obviously the most popular jewelry component for both women and men. From early years when mainly cabochon stones were used, jewelers gradually began using cameos, simple faceted stones with table cut, pearls of all sizes, opals and lightly faceted gemstone beads. Favored gemstones were diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires. But remember, diamonds did not have the sparkle of today's multi-faceted stones. Chains were also popular for men and women. Some were worn to designate an office held by the wearer, or a station in society.

Heart-shaped pendants were one of many designs that were very popular in this period. There were precious stones and gems that were also cut in the same manner. These were used signify a person's love for another. Rings were also used for this purpose and had various designs and themes that gave the same message.

Memento Mori is a type of ornament that a person wore to remind themselves that they were going to die. These ornaments would usually come in the form of skulls and coffins. After some time, a lock of hair from the person who died, was kept in a ring or a locket so that they would be remembered.

The broach is another item that was worn on the clothes quite frequently. Sometimes it was design to resemble a garland of flowers and leaves. Artist were always inspired by nature and used what they found to create beautiful designs. Necklaces of elaborate design were also inspirations of nature and were worn quite regularly.

The hair was also a way for women to express themselves and some used hair nets to do this. The nets were woven with different kinds of thread including gold. They were also decorated with pearls and other gems. Pearls were used to make necklaces and earrings and were worn by women who could afford them.

Renaissance costume jewelry could be very detailed and complex in its design or very simple. They were used in excess by certain groups of people who were among the wealthy in society. Yet, for many, the ornaments that was worn had deep meaning and were sometimes passed down from one generation to the next.

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