There are many ways in which we define ourselves in today’s society. From the way we present ourselves online, to the way we present ourselves at work or school, and of course how we present ourselves to our friends and family, too. If you think about it, there are many versions of ourselves living within the same body all at the same time. This is one of the beautiful things about fashion and style. Fashion and style offer us a medium to express the many different facets of our personality in an appropriate way, depending on the context of the event, the weather outside, and our feelings internally. Discovering our own personal style and fashion is a wonderful and fulfilling journey that can teach us a lot about ourselves.
Jewelry is just one more leg of the journey. Jewelry has long been favored by many. From kings and queens, to pharos, to everyday people who just like looking pretty. Jewelry, though, can also connote power, status, and wealth. Even in certain contexts today like hip-hop communities, the bigger the chain, the badder the persona behind it.
Understanding your style and taste in jewelry can help you shop for the piece that will bring you the most happiness and joy. It can also help you find the piece that will deliver the exact right message you’re trying to convey.
The History of Diamonds
The first time history notates diamonds is in India. They were mined from streams and rivers much like gold was mined in California during the California gold rush. However, these diamonds were largely monopolized by the wealthy and elite in the India estate. It wasn’t long before diamonds began making their way west though, and by the 1400’s, diamonds were favored as a piece of fashion among Europe’s elite classes. This was really just the start of the global diamond trading community.
By the 1700’s India’s diamond supply started to dwindle and Brazil emerged as a new import source. It took some time, but once the diamond markets of Brazil began to mature, they dominated the market space for around 150 years. However, the story behind how we know and understand the diamond market today, really started in the 1800s.
In 1866 diamonds were discovered in Kimberly, South Africa. 22 years later, and an entrepreneur would form De Beers Consolidated Mines Limited in 1888. By 1900 it was estimated that De Beers owned around 90% of the world’s supply of rough diamonds.
No matter who was controlling the marketplace, though, one thing remained constant. Diamonds have always been highly favored by the wealthy and elite. They are a symbol of status and power, and are considered to be one of the most beautiful and precious gemstones on planet earth. The history of diamonds is intricate and immense, and isn’t always pretty, either, but at the end of the day, it’s important information to have. Now, in today’s day and age, many diamonds that jewelers use are man-made in labs, which has sparked a series of other innovations in the marketplace as well.
Jewelry and Personal Style
Once again, jewelry is an extension of personal style, so having a good idea of what it is that you’re trying to convey can help you pick the right piece for your collection. Cuban link chains are gaining a lot of attention and traction in the marketspace right now, especially due to their presence in the hip-hop world.
If you’re looking to make a statement and drop some jaws, a Cuban link chain could be the perfect piece of jewelry to add to your collection. Even if you’re just starting to build your jewelry selection, a simple but elegant chain is versatile, aesthetically pleasing, and can add a splash to any outfit.
Picking Pieces That Speak to You
Another important part in shopping for jewelry is finding and picking pieces that speak to you. Even when you’re dressed up to the nines, you still want to feel comfortable and you still want to feel like you. Taking the time to browse the various selections a shop has to offer will give you a much better chance at securing a piece that you want to wear again and again.
Having a Diverse Collection
As you start to build your jewelry collection, you may want to start adding different pieces for different occasions, events, and styles. This is where diversity is key. It can be really effective to have a few pieces that are more minimalistic, in addition to some pieces that are eye-catching and jaw-dropping. This way, you’ll be able to sport some bling and splash up any outfit for any occasion.
Building a solid collection of jewelry doesn’t happen overnight. Especially because of the cost. Take your time in building your collection one piece at a time, and make sure that every addition speaks to you.