As much as I love modern day jewelry and would love nothing more than to have my hands covered with lovely, expensive rings - they are the same pieces of jewelry that almost anyone can purchase these days. If you want something that is unique and has a history behind it, look into ancient jewelry. Despite the thoughts of ancient jewelry being incredibly expensive, not all of it is. I have found many pieces of ancient jewelry that are reasonably priced and less expensive than buying those shiny diamonds.

What amazes me, is the history behind the unique pieces of ancient jewelry. Some of the necklaces and earrings that have been discovered, are thousands of years old. They come from all corners of the world and are created by hands that saw some of the most historical times of our world's history. I was fortunate enough to be able to purchase a beautiful necklace, made from mummy beads, about a year ago. I only paid $250 and have been terrified to wear it. Instead, it sits in a jewelry box and will be passed on to my daughter. I take it out every so often to admire its beauty and am just amazed at how many years this necklace has managed to survive and stay in such excellent condition. Ancient jewelry was often made with much more care and quality than modern day jewelry is. Not to say that modern day jewelry is made poorly, because it certainly is not. However, considering the skills of people from the ancient Egyptian times as well as other time periods, some ancient jewelry was made flawlessly. I like the

fact that when you are buying ancient jewelry, you are not only owning a piece of history, but continuing the stories of the people who once owned it. Their story continues to exist when someone carries something of theirs into the present and future.

There are many places that you can find ancient jewelry and purchase it. Sometimes jewelry auctions have ancient jewelry. You may not always be able to find ancient jewelry, but much of the recent past antique jewelry can be found. Christies auction often has ancient jewelry, but at much more expensive prices. There are some websites of private individuals and stores that have ancient jewelry pieces for sale. I have seen prices range greatly. I would however, recommend purchasing only ancient jewelry that comes with a certificate of authenticity. Once you purchase a piece of ancient jewelry, research that piece. You may find out some fascinating facts and will help to keep some peoples' stories alive.