Evolution of the Jewelry Trade

Author: Norma Stefanik

The jewelry trade had its humble beginning in the days of the caveman. Today it is a massive and flourishing industry. Jewelry is worn with everything from jeans and sneakers to elegant evening wear. How it all began is quite an interesting story.

Earliest forms of jewelry were worn by cavemen. Their jewelry was crudely fashioned of sea shells as well as animal teeth, claws or bones.

Graves of prehistoric people have revealed beaded jewelry as well as jewelry made of ivory, wood or metal. Studies of the ancient Egyptians revealed well-crafted jewelry. The Egyptians were probably the first to combine gemstones with gold or precious metals. The priests of Bible days wore breastplates made with rows of diamonds, emeralds and other gemstones.

Workers who made implements or weapons for battle became the first jewelry craftsmen. As they worked with metals to make the implements of war, they discovered the fine art of using the metals to create precious jewelry.

The jewelry trade came to America with the first settlers. An artisan could repair a broken farm implement, a wagon wheel or fashion a wedding ring. New York City became the leader of the precious metal industry in the 1890s with the first jewelry store opening at the beginning of the 19th century. The 20th century ushered in machines which created jewelry and mass production began in manufacturing plants. Jewelry became more available and more affordable.

New York City is still the headquarters in the United States for the leading designers and artisans. During the mid 1900s jewelry artists began designing and creating their own specials lines of jewelry. These are sold in up-scale stores, boutiques or galleries. Today, jewelry is available in specialty jewelry stores, department stores, mall kiosks, craft shows, etc. The Internet and television shopping channels also claim a large portion of jewelry sales.

Many celebrities now have their own line of jewelry. These are mostly sold on television or up-scale department stores. Usually the designs are high-fashion and elaborately crafted. Jewelry is worn by men, women and children of all ages. It has become increasingly popular.

There is always joy in giving jewelry to mark major occasions such as engagements, weddings, birth of a child, anniversaries, etc. Jewelry will be around for eternity.

When shopping for gold and diamonds, the name to remember is www.normasfinejewelry.com. Norma’s has many beautiful jewelry items at 40% to 60% less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price every day. If you’re shopping for earrings, necklace, bracelets, or diamonds rings, be sure to see the 100’s of choices at Norma’s. There’s no need to wait for a sale or fight the Mall traffic. Norma welcomes you and every order will receive her personally attention.

More on Fashion & Beauty and Jewelry can be found here.



About the author

Norma Stefanik is writer and senior administrator for NormasFineJewelry.com , which specializes in fine jewelry.