As early as King Louis' era, French women wore elaborate wigs matched with necklaces made from the most precious gems. Queen Elizabeth, among other prominent women figures in the Renaissance, also wore necklaces, rings and bracelets with the most beautiful stones that until now, value thousands of dollars. Numerous strings of jewels were beaded into their ornately designed wardrobes and even woven into their most elaborate of hairdos.



Fast forward

Jewelry fanatics put together 1,000 exclusive, sophisticated replicas of Prince Charles' engagement ring to Camilla Parker Bowles in their February 2005 engagement. The much-talked about piece has an emerald-cut, center diamond and with each side covered vertically in three diamond baguettes. The engagement ring, containing 8 carats of diamonds, is said to be an heirloom from the late Queen Mother.

While these jewels equate nobility and profound elegance for these prominent royalties, it has become a fashion statement for the "regular people." Habits have been acquired on how jewelry is worn to exude style and set trends in most societies.

From brooches to pins, necklaces to anklets, wearing jewelry affords that extra stylish touch. Through time, the versatility of wearing these has definitely evolved. Putting a brooch gives an old handbag a new life, and a plain purse is dressed up by the addition of gemstone pieces. More often than not, jewelry pieces are often worn and matched with scarves, hats, bags, belts, and the list goes on. The jewelry vocabulary has definitely gone a long way!

Besides being pacesetters, most rich and famous men can attest that the priciest jewelry in the world can win their ladies' hearts. Dazzling jewelry pieces with greatly combined traditional and innovative approach have been unfailing to show a man's love.

Looking astonishingly great with jewelry, though, doesn't have to break the bank. Fashion jewelry can be made from high-quality, durable materials, and still be affordable for the most part. Synthetic stones, crystals, and other more inexpensive metals can be utilized as chic alternatives to beautiful accessorizing.

The modern woman knows that moderately priced jewelry affords them the fun and freshness of having more than just one trendy piece for their jewelry collections. Even younger women have learned to wear reasonably-priced jewelry pieces to flaunt their youthful personalities.

With jewelry becoming part of every society's tradition and culture in general, it pays to know how to keep them in their best form and appearance. Proper jewelry wear, knowing when to put it on and off, effectuates proper care. Jewelry should be put on after applying perfume, hairspray and make-up to avoid tarnishing them. Generally, pearls and similar stones should be handled as little as possible to avoid the skin oil that builds up over time and dulls their original appearance.

Wearing jewelry is a no-no when doing housework. Having your bracelets, rings or necklaces ruined due to harsh cleaning aids and solvents can turn out disastrous. Even diamonds can crack or get chipped when knocked against hard surfaces.

Whether to connote your fashion statement, for elegance or plainly for fun, wearing jewelry pieces should bring out the positive in you. After all, all pieces of jewelry were regarded as a symbol of happiness in the earlier times. And no, it is not our fault if we outshine them!