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Jewellery History: Where Does the Name Jewellery Come From?
Here at Sparkle Towers, we obviously use the word ‘jewellery’ rather frequently…Probably about 50 times a day between every member of team Alyssa in our workshop! It got all of us wondering how the word came about and what it means!
The word ‘jewellery’ originated from the Latin ‘jocale’ which means ‘plaything’, and the current word that we use today is a modernised version of the Old French ‘jouel’, meaning wearable adornments made from precious materials, such as metals and gemstones. The word has so much history as jewellery is one of the oldest recorded decorations, with its original versions being made from bones, shells, and stones. As time went on, both the materials and techniques used to create jewellery became much more refined, but the original function has never changed!
From an expression of personal style and creativity to symbolism and even a display of social status, jewellery has long played an incredibly important role within society. People have worn jewellery as a ‘protection’ amulet for centuries too- with the Evil Eye, Hamsa and certain gemstones such as Hematite being worn to repel danger and Jade to bring luck into the wearer’s life.
Here at The House of Alyssa, we know a thing or two about crystals that are believed to offer us powers of protection and bring us good luck!
Fun fact: In ancient times, such as ancient Greece, gemstones, and protective symbols like the Evil Eye, believed to help ward off evil spirits and protect the wearer from the curse of the ‘Evil Eye’, were a staple in anyone’s wardrobe and are still widely used to this day! So much so, that Alyssa has designed and made her very own special series of Evil Eye pieces, complete with accompanying gemstones for that extra level of protective power!
Many original forms of jewellery were also created for the purpose of fastening clothes, which is why pins and brooches originally came about and eventually became more decorative! These are still enjoyed today, including cufflinks which hold shirt sleeves together.
Although today jewellery is generally worn for more of the creative and personal purposes, it still plays an incredibly important role within many people’s lives, as we are sure you are all aware! Here at House of Alyssa we believe jewellery should serve a purpose to the wearer- including being worn for protection, good luck, feel good factors and to ‘wear the memories’ which is our mantra!
If you’re ever looking to honour or commemorate a loved one, Alyssa has something for you (of course!) Fallen feathers are seen to be a sign that the spirit of someone you love up in heaven is close to you, looking down on you. Our Angel and Angel Feathers collection contains the most perfect, special pieces that would make a great gift or pay day purchase if you are in search of this!
Alternatively, if you are looking to celebrate a new life, why not explore our Twink the Tiny Star collection which hosts the most adorable pieces, much loved by all our amazing customers! This teeny tiny silver star could represent your teeny tiny humans or someone else’s (the perfect gift!) To personalise these pieces further, we also offer you the chance to personalise your new sparkles with birthstones, making them the ultimate form of personal symbolism!
We just love learning about jewellery history and all the fascinating uses it has had over the years! We would love to hear any other interesting jewellery facts you may have, so let us know down below!
ALYSSA ( Sparkle Queen ) SMITH
Founder, Director and Jewellery Chief Elf Designer Maker · Alyssa Smith Jewellery
ALYSSAS DIARY
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