Happy Valentine.

The early English valentines expressed emotions with hand written verse to declare their love to their sweethearts. Often hidden symbols were used within the decoration, for example a particular flower such as a rose to communicate desire in a discreet manner. Similarly, but perhaps a grander gesture, giving a piece of jewellery can often connect with our emotions far more than a card can.

I have always found jewellery history fascinating and is particularly relevant when it comes to conveying romantic sentiment. Mizpah jewellery played its part in the early Victorian era symbolizing a bond of affection between two people. It is a very poignant and emotive ‘Mizpah’ loosely translated meaning ‘May God watch over you’.

Deeply rooted in Irish culture is the ‘Claddagh’ ring. Mystical and beautiful, the three key elements of the design is a heart, crown and two clasped hands representing love, loyalty and friendship. It has sentimental appeal because of its unique design and to illustrate this I have found a pre loved ladies gold Claddagh ring with a Dublin hallmark.

Another familiar symbol which initially you may not connect to jewellery is the ‘infinity’ sign. From tattoos, math to meditation, this graceful loop represents endlessness, eternity and connection that never fade.

Colour is a powerful tool for jewellery designers, none more so than the colour red which we tend to link with Valentine’s Day and often symbolizing passion.  Enamellist Nicole Barr uses vivid red enamel in this new heart shaped pendant to great effect.

Hearts play a big part in romance, so in jewellery it will come as no surprise that there are lots to choose from - textured, swirly, smooth and puffed shapes.  I’ve shown a selection in silver and also in gold.

The heart shape is the main feature on this vintage gold charm bracelet. Taking centre stage, the padlock has a striking engraving on one side. These types of bracelets are great to wear on their own or an additional personalized shaped gold tag with an engraved initial or name can work really well.

These chunky padlocks appear again on contemporary silver bracelets conveying the message ‘you hold the key to my heart’.

This miniature gold heart shaped box charm with a small ring inside is quite wonderful to give as a declaration of love. The hidden meaning here is clear to see and spells out what words cannot…It’s not as old as I had thought and made in 1969 a vintage piece, a bit like myself!

So, Valentine is here to stay. What I have learnt from all these symbols is that it doesn’t matter whether its Cupid with his bow and arrow, floriography or the evocative heart, it’s all about the meaning….

‘Happy Valentines’….. Sally x