Jewelry Articles
Jewelry History Timeline: Part One, Antiquity
It's genuinely fascinating to see the way jewelry evolves over time. The differences between what's made today and what was made 100 years ago tell an infinite variety of stories, not to mention the centuries of jewelry history that came before. From antiquity to the present day, the rise and fall of different fashions, technology, and resources have woven an elaborate tapestry for admirers and creators to adore.
A Brief & Storied History of Handmade Jewelry
The art of crafting jewelry by hand is one that predates much of human history. Even before the first written words were invented around 6,000 years ago, people were making ornaments out of stone, bone, and other materials to be worn on the body. Gold necklaces have been found in ancient Babylonian archaeological sites which are estimated to be around 8,000 years old. It seems that jewelry has existed as long as civilization itself, and throughout history has been most often made by hand.
The History of Handmade Jewelry: Back Then to Now
Creating handmade jewelry has been around practically since the dawn of time, with the earliest records of handmade jewelry being made by Neanderthals in Europe. Perforated beads that were made of sea shells and small stones have been dated as far back as 115,000 years ago. They've been found in a cave called Cueva de los Aviones, which is located on the southeast coast of Spain. Shortly after, humans moved on to using items such as bones and teeth to make primitive adornments for themselves and others.
Artisan vs. Handmade Jewelry: Is there really a difference?
When searching for pieces of jewelry to add to your collection, it should not only be a representation of taste but also your personality. Finding those pieces to add to your chest should take about as much effort as finding the right dress to wear to a cocktail party or finding the perfect handbag. Any jewelry aficionado understands each piece that is added to their collection has a story of origin. They are also able to tell you what and why that particular piece is so special to them. All jewelry is not created equally. With that in mind, your jewelry should be a clear and unique representation of YOU.
![Your Sterling Silver Jewelry: Cleaning & Preventing Tarnish [PART 2]](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0826/7957/articles/crystalgemstonesilverbeadedbracelet_{width}x.jpg?v=1567282050)
Your Sterling Silver Jewelry: Cleaning & Preventing Tarnish [PART 2]
There are many tarnish-removal methods available on the internet. Unfortunately, it's hard to sort out the ideas that work from those that don't. Even worse are the remedies (like toothpaste) that might remove the tarnish but which will definitely damage freshwater pearls or Swarovski crystals that are nestled amongst the silver!
![Your Sterling Silver Jewelry: Why Does it Tarnish? [PART 1]](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0826/7957/articles/ocean-shore_{width}x.jpg?v=1567280097)
Your Sterling Silver Jewelry: Why Does it Tarnish? [PART 1]
We know that you love your sterling silver jewelry and like to wear it everywhere you go. However, there are a few places your precious metal jewelry would rather not go! Two places that top the list are the beach and swimming pools. Not only are salt and chlorine damaging to your jewelry but just being around that much water can hasten the advent of that dreaded scourge of sterling silver jewelry... tarnish!
Beaded Jewelry: Timeless & Trendy
Wearing handmade beaded jewelry can be an addictive expression of individuality. The variety of styles, colors, sizes, shapes and all around diversity of features one can find in beaded jewelry is quite probably limitless. The spectrum of choices also make it possible for nearly everyone to find something unique and wearable regardless of age or gender.
Handmade Lampwork Beads
Lampwork beads are handmade one at a time by using a torch and a melting glass to make original glass beads. Occasionally, a bead can be made again, but it's rare that they're ever identical, making each bead one of a kind.
Top Three Gemstones for Good Luck
Have you ever wondered about the symbolic meaning behind the beautiful gems in your beaded jewelry? Whether you purposely seek out gemstones and crystals for their supposed metaphysical properties or you just like the way they look, there's no doubt that it is interesting to understand the traditional meaning behind your unique beaded jewelry. Here are the top three gemstones that have historically been used to bring good luck.
Jewelry and the Value of Uniqueness
At SWCreations Jewelry, we hand-craft each piece of jewelry that we sell, because we believe in the philosophy that items made with care carry more value and provide better assets to our customers.
In some ways, jewelry is all about unique personal expression. That's why it's hard to get excited about items that are mass manufactured.
