Tagged with 'Giving pearls'

Birthstones are enduringly popular when choosing and giving jewellery. The gemstones that are aligned with particular months of the year now also appear more frequently in all types of jewellery, particularly in those types that sit close to the body such as rings, pendants and earrings. In this article we look at their history and how to identify 'what is my birthstone'?

Finding Your Birthstone

There are a number of different versions of the birthstone guide. At Winterson we draw from the British National Association of Goldsmiths list, created in 1937, with some of the more contemporary American additions, from the later 20th century.



To discover your individual birthstone, our Gemstone Guide is full of information on individual types of gems, as well as explaining their unique characteristics, composition and heritage.

The History of the Birthstone

The concept of the birthstone, or the notion that certain gems  associated with months of the year can have positive benefits, is believed to have started with the first century historian Josephus.

Josephus attributed mythological importance to the twelve stones embedded in the breastplate of Moses’ brother Aaron. The number, he believed, signified the tribes of Israel, the twelve months of the year, and the twelve signs of the zodiac. The breastplate was believed to have held emerald, sapphire, diamond, topaz, carbuncle, sardius, agate, amethyst, onyx, jasper, beryl and ligure (argued by some to have been a form of amber, and by others, lapis).



Image: Gemstone stud earrings, Lief collection at Winterson

Josephus suggested that people should own all 12 birthstones and wear each gem in its corresponding month. This concept has similarities to the Eastern navratna, or nine stones, which many Hindus believe combine to protect individuals from harmful influences and support the wearer through life’s challenges.

The contemporary Birthstone is born

Renowned gemologist George Kunz believed that the modern variation of the birthstone concept that we follow today was established in 18th century Poland. Gem traders were thought to have used the idea of the birthstone as a form of early marketing, although the Gemological Institute of America locates the birth of this practice in 1560s Germany.



Image 1: George Frederick Kunz, gemologist, circa 1900
Image 2: Table of UK birthstones, Winterson birthstones by month

The concept, Kunz believed, was aimed at increasing sales of a wider range of stones, broadening the choice for consumers and at the same time opening up a new avenue for increased sales of the jewels that contain them.

Defining the list of Birthstones

In 1912 the American National Association of Jewelers gave the practice a formal grounding, producing a list of twelve birthstones that has largely remained the standard ever since.

Additions were been made in 1952, when the Jewelry Industry Council of America made Alexandrite another gemstone for June. Pink tourmaline was added for October, citrine for November, and lapis replaced zircon as the birthstone for December. More recently, Tanzanite was added to December’s birthstones by the American Gem Trade Association, which also added spinel to August in 2016.



Image: The iconic pearl

The British National Association of Goldsmiths created its own list in 1937, drawing largely on the 1912 version, and this forms the foundation of our own Buying Guide to Birthstones, which features a table that outlines the relationship between birth months and their specific gems.

The Birthstone for June

For Winterson, June is one of our favorite months! The beginning of summer, it is also the traditional birthstone month of the pearl.



Image 1: Classic Akoya Pearl Necklace and Earrings Set in White Gold
Image 2: Mythologie Akoya Pearl and Diamond Pendant in Rose Gold

The pearl is also considered lucky for the astrological signs Cancer and Gemini. The pearl is associated with loyalty, love and generosity, as well as innocence. Many Eastern cultures also believe the pearl can help to counter anger and increase creativity.

Each year around five per cent of us choose to show our love by giving our beloved a piece of jewellery for Valentine’s Day. Whilst diamonds have been a firm favourite in recent years, they're not the only choice.

Here are a few simple tips to help ensure your choice of gift this Valentine’s Day is as beautiful and perfect as the recipient.

SENSE HER STYLE

While it’s easy to be tempted by the changing trends of fast fashion, most of us take less risk when it comes to our taste in jewellery. Before you start shopping, try to gain a clear idea of preference when it comes to the different types of precious metals and gemstones. For example, does she prefer rose or white gold to yellow? And perhaps establish whether she tends to go for classic or more contemporary pieces.

UNDER PROMISE, OVER DELIVER

It’s important to consider what your valentine is hoping to see when presented with luxury jewellery. If you’re yet to pop the question, think very carefully about the disappointment you may unintentionally cause by opting for anything that comes in a ring-sized box. Instead think about opting for a piece of jewellery that makes it clear you’re not about to drop down on one knee.

Pendants in pearl, diamond or gemstones, are a thoughtful choice, especially if you can choose something that is lovely paired with her favourite dress.

LET TIMELESS BEAUTY ENDURE

A national rise in the average transaction values of jewellery purchases at this time of year suggests that many do feel it’s a good time to invest in what’s possibly the most romantic of Valentine’s Day gifts, an engagement ring.

While engagement ring fashions in the twentieth century leant heavily towards diamond solitaires, this hasn’t always been the case, with many different gemstones and pearls being traditionally used in the past.

A stunning central pearl accented by two princess cut diamonds is a timeless classic with a contemporary twist, while opting for a Tahitian or a white Akoya pearl offset by a brightly-coloured gemstone promises enduring beauty in a decidedly 21st century style.

Or for something altogether different celebrate your love with a burst of colour by selecting a ring featuring vivid run of breathtaking pink or blue sapphires.

ALL WRAPPED UP

Whether it’s elegant earrings or that all important ring, ensure your gift delights from the second that she lays eyes on it by opting for expertly gift-wrapped jewels.

Each piece of Winterson jewellery comes in our stunning signature zigzag wrapping, which means your purchase is guaranteed to be beautiful inside and out, just like your loved one.

Graduation day is a day for throwing your hat in the air!  Why not also celebrate academic achievement with our selection of graduation presents.

After years of hard work studying, graduation can be a rite of passage for many, marking a transition from studenthood to professional life.

For the ceremony on graduation day, tradition holds that graduands will wear a formal gown with a hood and sometime a cap. Graduands are students that are about to graduate or receive a degree.

This tradition of wearing a gown is thought to date back to medieval times. Usually graduands will choose to wear simple dark clothes beneath their gowns so as not to distract from the academic formalities.

Women are also allowed to wear discreet jewellery and many choose to wear pearls which, amongst gemstones, are a classic and perfect graduation present.

At Winterson we can recommend three popular pieces of pearl jewellery that will complement the style of the traditional graduation gown.

 

PEARL AND DIAMOND PENDANT SET

This pretty and feminine set is made of a white freshwater pearl pendant in the shape of a drop sitting elegantly below a sparkling diamond. It is matched with a pair of freshwater white pearl stud earrings.

WHITE GOLD DIAMOND LEVERBACK AND AKOYA PEARL EARRINGS

A pair of pearl and diamond earrings are true jewellery box staples that will be treasured for years to come. This model in 18 carat white gold will add a touch of glamour to the academic formalities and is available with either Freshwater pearls or Japanese Akoya pearls.

AKOYA PEARL NECKLACE

For a special treat, a traditional white Japanese Akoya pearl necklace would be a delightful present to mark any graduation day.

We offer a number of different styles of necklace, strung with 6-6.5mm, 7-7.5mm and 8-8.5mm pearls or for added sparkle with a diamond clasp to catch the eye.

Whichever style of pearl jewellery you choose, a young lady will enjoy wearing pearl jewellery on her graduation. For many following years, she will also be reminded of this unique day spent with friends and family.

At Winterson we offer three pearl jewellery sets for brides that will be perfect for wearing with most bridal outfits on your special day.

 

One of the most feminine and graceful colours, white became the traditional colour for brides to wear at weddings in Europe and America in the 19th century. A symbol of purity, innocence and grace, white continues today to be the most popular colour for a bride’s wedding day.

 

Pearl jewellery is a perfect choice to match the elegance of a white wedding dress. Pearls have unique properties. Their white and reflective surface will enhance the crisp brightness of a dress and flatter a bride’s complexion.

 

These classic and versatile pieces can also be enjoyed again and again as favourite items in any jewellery box and collection.

BRIDAL PEARL AND DIAMOND PENDANT AND EARRINGS SET

 

This elegant pendant is made with a white freshwater pearl in the shape of a teardrop, set with a sparkling diamond and presented on an 18 carat white gold chain. It is accompanied by pretty white freshwater pearl earring studs, that are also finished with 18 carat white gold.

 

This beautiful bridal set is a perfect finishing touch to a bride’s attire that will subtly accessorise the dress.

PEARL WEDDING NECKLACE AND EARRINGS SET

 



 

The classic look of the white Freshwater pearl necklace might be the irresistible choice for the bride-to-be. This wedding necklace and earring set is made with white freshwater pearls, which have been chosen for their excellent lustre and beauty.

 

The jewellery is finished with 18 carat white gold and the necklace is also available with a silver magnetic clasp.

CLASSIC AKOYA PEARL NECKLACE, BRACELET AND EARRINGS SET

 



 

Akoya pearls are a traditional type of pearl, originally farmed in Japan. They are characterized by their white color with an overtone of pink, making them an ultimate feminine gemstone.

 

This classic Akoya pearl necklace, bracelet and earring set is finished with 18 carat white gold and is one of our favourite bridal jewellery sets.

 

Visit our bridal pearl jewellery, wedding necklaces and bridal earrings collections for other exquisite designs and jewellery sets that will match the emotion of the occasion.

With there being so many varieties and types of freshwater pearls available today, if you are thinking of choosing a freshwater pearl necklace, there can be a few subtleties in choosing the right one.

To help you think through the options, here are five types of freshwater pearl necklace that might match your style or that of a loved one you wish to surprise with a gift.

CLASSICALLY PRETTY

 

The princess length white freshwater pearl necklace is a truly classic necklace. Made with round to near round freshwater pearls, typically ranging in size from 6.5 to 8.5 mm in diameter, this necklace will match nearly any style or colour.

 

Beautifully versatile, it can be worn casually with a pair of jeans or dressed up with a glitzy evening gown.

When choosing this jewellery box essential, look for a high lustre pearl, as the essence of this necklace lies in the reflective beauty of its pearls.

NATURALLY PASTEL

 

Freshwater pearls come in a variety of natural pastel colours - pink, lavender and orangey apricot. These soft colours combine with the shining nacre of the pearl to create subtle and elegant pearl necklaces.

 

A multicolour freshwater pearl necklace is feminine, easy to wear and will flatter any skin tone or light coloured outfit.

When choosing a colourful freshwater pearl necklace, our advice would be to avoid dyed or treated pearls as overtly bright or dark colours will have a less natural look, may fade gradually over time and will lose their feminine beauty.

MODERN BAROQUE

 

Alongside the round pearl, freshwater pearls may have more creative irregular shapes. Keshi pearls, as they are usually called, are formed as a result of pearl culturing techniques. At times overlooked by women, today quality keshi pearls with high lustre and clean surfaces are sought after by designers to make stunning pearl jewellery.

A keshi pearl necklace can add a contemporary twist to the classic pearl necklace and can be versatile and worn every day.

FLAPPER FASHION

 

Extending the length of a freshwater pearl necklace evokes a different era of fashion. The sautoir, or rope necklace, is 95 cm in length or more and can be strung with round or near round pearls, but also button or oval shaped freshwater pearls.

For a look reminiscent of the roaring 1920s, the freshwater pearl sautoir is a necklace that can be worn fluidly down to the waist, twisted up to three times around the neckline in multiple strands or tied in a knot at the front.

VINTAGE GLAMOUR

 

Smaller to larger freshwater pearls that are graduated in size from back to the front of the necklace can create a particularly elegant and refined necklace. The pearls should be round to near round in shape and carefully matched, usually from 5mm to 8mm in diameter.

 

For a more glamorous style, these graduated pearl necklaces may be strung together in multiple strands using a special type of clasp.

With this type of necklace, the matching of pearl sizes is important for its finesse, so look for a well matched and steady graduation.

What love could be more enduring than the love we hold for our mothers?

To celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday March 10th this year, cards, chocolates or flowers are delightful gifts, yet also short-lived. If you are thinking of a more lasting tribute, a classic piece of pearl jewellery will be appreciated and enjoyed every day of the year.

For our selection of three unforgettable Mother’s Day gifts, we have chosen the classic Akoya pearl. The first pearl to be cultured in Japan, their history and prettiness makes the Akoya pearl a pertinent symbol of enduring love.

This ‘mother’ of cultured pearls is also characterized by its beautiful, high lustre and near perfect round shape.

CLASSIC WHITE AKOYA PEARL STUD EARRINGS

The grace of the Akoya pearl is highlighted in a pair of Akoya pearl earrings, an elegant and simple form of jewellery. These are feminine earrings, with a subtle pink overtone, that are a jewellery box staple.

The surface of Akoya pearls is made of nacre, similar to mother of pearl, which has unique properties. The shine of a pearl's nacre reflects light across the face of its wearer with an flattering glow.

Akoya pearl stud earrings suit ladies of all ages and, like a subtle daily touch of mascara or eye shadow, they become an indispensable accessory.

AKOYA PEARL AND DIAMOND PENDANT

An 18 carat gold chain presents an delicate, exquisite pearl and diamond pendant. This combination of precious gemstones has been a favorite for centuries as the lustre of the Akoya pearl contrasts well with the sparkle of the diamond.

Like a precious treasure to discretely adorn the neckline, and lying close to the heart, this pendant is also available from Winterson in 18 carat white gold.

18 CARAT YELLOW GOLD AKOYA PEARL RING

Our final gift for Mother's Day is inspired by the circle.

A symbol of eternity, rings symbolise a loving bond and the elegant shape of this 18 carat yellow gold Akoya ring echoes the pretty round shape of its Akoya pearl.

View our Gifts for Mothers for other enduring Mother's Day gift ideas.

All of our jewellery is treasured in a luxurious black jewellery box and travel pouch, like a precious pearl in the shell of its oyster. The jewellery box is snuggly fitted into a coral pink protective box, wrapped with a zigzag pattern and sealed with our Winterson flower.

Now, please hand over the chocolates…

Sometimes the simplest of thoughts can say it all.

With Valentine's Day being celebrated by lovers around the world this week, why not take a moment for some inspiration from one of our greatest and most romantic poets?

In his short life John Keats (1795-1821) wrote some of the most beautiful and sensual poetry that we know, including hundreds of letters and poems to the great love of his life Fanny Brawne.

Their time together, however, was cut tragically short. Soon after having met in the Autumn of 1818, Keats was diagnosed with tuberculosis. Moving south away from the cold English winter, Keats died in Rome in 1821 at the early age of 25. After leaving London, Keats did not see Brawne again and asked to be buried with a lock of her hair and her unopened letters that had been too painful for him to read.

This poem by Keats from an unidentified opera was published some time after his death and is filled full of longing for a lost love, who Keats symbolically compares to the innocence and purity of a perfect white pearl.

Asleep! O Sleep A Little While, White Pearl!

And let me kneel, and let me pray to thee,

And let me call Heaven’s blessing on thine eyes,

And let me breathe into the happy air,

That doth enfold and touch thee all about,

Vows of my slavery, my giving up,

My sudden adoration, my great love!

 John Keats, Extracts from an Opera, 1818

 

Our perfect gift for Valentine's Day would be this beautiful Akoya Pearl and Diamond Pendant, which features a classic round, white Akoya pearl with a sparkling diamond set in 18 carat white gold.

An understated and elegant piece of jewellery, there could be few simpler ways to surprise and celebrate your love.

One of the most romantic gifts, pearls have a classic and beautiful quality that women for generations have loved to wear.

 

With Valentine's Day just a few weeks away, we take an inspiring look at three iconic women that famously received and wore gifts of pearl jewellery in the Golden Age of 1950s America - Grace Kelly, Jacqueline Kennedy and Marilyn Monroe.

GRACE KELLY

 

 

For her engagement to Prince Rainer Grimaldi III of Monaco in 1955, the beautiful Grace Kelly received a engagement set of pearl jewellery created by Van Cleef & Arpels. The future Princess was often photographed wearing pearls and her engagement gift was a three strand white Freshwater pearl necklace matched with a pearl bracelet, pearl earrings and a pearl ring.

 

The necklace was made of graduated white round pearls and finished with a white gold or platinum clasp and spacers set with diamonds.

 

The three strand bracelet elegantly complemented the necklace. Its clasp, together with two spacers, took the shape of a flower with four symmetrical petals adorned with diamonds.

 

Keeping with the floral design, the earrings also took the form of diamond petals with a pretty round pearl at their centre and the ring had an oval pearl nestled into a diamond shaped leaf.

JACQUELINE KENNEDY ONASSIS

 

 

Jackie Kennedy captivated the world with her beauty and grace. Her wedding to the charismatic and aspiring Senator John F. Kennedy in 1953 was one of the social highlights of the year.

 

For the occasion, Jackie Kennedy wore a single strand of pearls from a family collection and a gift of a unique diamond and pearl bracelet from her future husband. The white pearl necklace (pictured above) was a choker length that complemented the design of her wedding dress, which had an off-the-shoulder neckline, fitted waistline and bouffant skirt.

 

The simplicity of the pearl jewellery and the design of her gown matched the natural beauty of Jackie Kennedy to create this romantic moment.

MARILYN MONROE

 

 

During her honeymoon in Japan in 1954, Marilyn Monroe was given a classic choker necklace by her new husband, Joe DiMaggio. The necklace was a classic pearl choker from the famous Japanese Mikimoto brand, measuring 16 inches with 44 round Akoya pearls.

 

Although Marilyn was famed for singing ‘Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend’ in the 1953 movie Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, she was fond of her pearls. It was said that this honeymoon necklace (pictured) was one of the few pieces of jewellery that she truly loved and treasured.

It's time to drop a few subtle hints for Christmas and perhaps nudge them in the right direction, so we have selected a few of our favourite pieces of pearl jewellery from our collections for you to send as a reminder.

There are many different designs, types of pearls and colours to choose from. Timeless in style and always beautiful to wear, a carefully chosen gift of pearls will always be loved for a lifetime.

AKOYA PEARL AND DIAMOND PENDANT

New to Winterson this Christmas, is an elegant single white pearl and diamond pendant necklace. The most traditional of cultured pearls, the white Akoya pearl has a beautiful lustre to match the sparkle of its diamond.

 RUBY AND AKOYA PEARL STUD EARRINGS

These colourful earrings feature a circle of pink rubies set in 18 carat white gold around a white Japanese Akoya pearl. Designed by Sophie Breitmeyer, each stud earring is less than 10mm in diameter and are easy to wear and very comfortable.

 TAHITIAN PEARL AND DIAMOND YELLOW GOLD RING

Sparkling round brilliant cut diamonds showcase the gorgeous colours of this beautiful Tahitian pearl. This contemporary ring features a grey saltwater Tahitian pearl, which has been cultured in the warm ocean waters of French Polynesia.

CLASSIC AKOYA PEARL NECKLACE, BRACELET AND EARRINGS SET

A beautiful set of matched white Akoya pearls, finished with either an 18 carat white or yellow gold clasp. These classic cultured pearls from Japan are adored for their exquisite lustre and effortless elegance.

All our jewellery is delivered in our signature gift-wrapped jewellery box and pouch, with its distinctive classic zigzag pattern. The box is sealed with our coral Winterson flower and would be a delightful gift to be opening this Christmas.

If you would like to learn more, browse through the other gift suggestions of pearl jewellery in our new Christmas Gift Guide or view our Collections.

With the launch of our new range of pearl rings, we introduced our beautiful Akoya Pearl and Diamond White Gold Ring.

Impeccably finished in 18 carat white gold, the ring exquisitely highlights the grace and elegance of the pearl - the traditionally symbolic gemstone for new brides around the world to wear on their wedding day.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE ENGAGEMENT RING

The history and romance of giving rings is part of our wedding traditions, first being given in Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome as symbols of love, the heart and ownership.

In 1477 the Archduke Maximilian of Austria is recorded to have presented Mary of Burgundy with the world's first diamond engagement ring. Families around Europe with significant wealth followed suit.

Until De Beers discovered large diamond deposits in South Africa in the late 19th century, however, diamonds were forever to just a few.

A TRADITION BEFORE DIAMONDS

Couples instead celebrated their engagement with a variety of different coloured gemstone and gold rings.

Engagement rings with sapphires, rubies, seed pearls and other gemstones were popular, as was the use of other metal alloys such as yellow gold and rose gold.

Victorian pearl engagement rings were simple or intricate in their design.

The solitaire diamond, set in six-pronged claw style called a Tiffany Setting in 1886, is still the classic engagement ring design today.

But more unusual gemstones and cuts are back in fashion. It is also popular for couples to choose a more individual style, to personalise a ring, or even design a bespoke piece of jewellery.

THE PEARL ENGAGEMENT RING

For our ring collection, this ring design features an Akoya pearl, a variety of saltwater pearl that can truly match the emotion of the occasion with its special lustre and pink-white colour.

Two princess cut square white diamonds give the pearl an accent, whilst the flat court profile of the outside of the white gold band gives the ring a more contemporary styling.

A pearl engagement ring? Now that would be love.