Needless necessity: jewelry and silver in America

This exhibition surveys the results of a 200 year-old phenomenon through three centuries of objects made of precious metals and gemstones. Throughout the Colonial and Revolutionary periods, few individuals or families owned silver or gold objects — not only because they were costly, but also because few saw the necessity for such fine things. However, between 1840 and 1875, machine production and wider availability of precious metals and gemstones made silver and jewelry more affordable than ever before, and many Americans began avidly collecting beautiful pieces.

Promoted by manufacturers and by etiquette experts as appropriate ways for Americans to express cultural and sentimental values, both jewelry and silverware became standard gifts to commemorate important moments in people’s lives. As a result, owning such objects became a virtual necessity for many Americans. The fact that gold and silver traditionally evoke images of wealth and power has helped to maintain their desirability to this day. However, just as it did a century ago, the sentiment attached to the giving of a piece of jewelry or silver still often outweighs its inherent value. From birthstone jewelry to wedding silver, Victorian America created a “tradition” of jewelry and silver ownership that had never existed before, but that continues to live on today in spite of the many changes in contemporary culture.

About The Author:

Marie Ross is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.wedding-rings-n-bands.com. Find beautiful weddings rings and bands including diamond, titanium, celtic, platinum and special designs.