A wax seal was critical for document authentication and security. It evolved into something wearable and chic.

Napoleon was the master of using jewelry as propaganda.

Cut steel jewelry was at the height of fashion from the mid 1700s well into the 19th century.

An amulet is a personal ornament that protects the wearer from adversity, misfortune, illness, and even death.

In the 14th century, it was discovered that the only way to cut a diamond was with another diamond.

An ancient technique of carving into a stone, gem or shell to creates a three-dimensional sculpture.

The earliest monograms served as royal signatures on coins in Ancient Greece.

The double-clefted heart icon was born in the Middle Ages.

The meaning of birds in jewelry: owls, parrots, swallows, doves, eagles and aigrettes.

The art of transforming glass into gemstones.

Possibly the most widespread and versatile of all jewelry, chains have a cultural significance that spans place, time and religious beliefs.

Supernaturally powerful orbs.

Serpents were the bodyguards of the ancient world.

Because foul odors were thought to breed disease, creating a pleasant-smelling atmosphere wasn't frivolous, it was imperative.

Discoveries in Ancient Egypt captivated the West’s imagination and inspired a wild period of exciting design.

Jewelry made from hair allowed the bereaved to keep their loved one with them always.

These jewels were worn discreetly to show one’s support for the beheaded monarch Charles I.

A turquoise given by a loving hand carries with it happiness and good fortune. -Arabic proverb

The best “costume jewelry” during the Georgian era was pinchbeck, a top-secret formula that looked — and wore — just like gold.

Rings with hidden keys are a great idea, but not a new one. Let’s go back 2000+ years.

Anthropomorphic, wild, and adorable, pansies were jubilantly translated into jewelry throughout the Victorian era.

A giant flaming ball shooting across the sky: what humans wouldn’t be fascinated?

It’s hard to pinpoint when modern-day lockets were invented, but it’s believed that they evolved from ancient amulets.

Coral jewelry has been worn as an amulet of protection against ailments and danger since ancient Rome.

Floriography allowed the Victorians to communicate their desires without saying anything at all.