gold jewelry

The History of Gold Jewelry

Gold has always held a great fascination. People began making art objects and jewelry from this precious metal at an early stage.
The art of making gold jewelry flourished in the time of the ancient Egyptians. The golden grave goods decorated with precious stones for King Tutankhamun are an eloquent testimony to the high craftsmanship of the goldsmiths of that time.

Evidence of the production of gold jewelry from around 2,400 BC has also been preserved on the Greek island of Crete. Tiaras, hair jewelry, bracelets and elaborate necklaces were made from the coveted precious metal.

In the period from the 3rd to the 1st century BC, gold jewelry was decorated with great artistry, especially with miniature depictions of people, animals or plants.
Later, between the 4th and 8th centuries, more abstract forms of gold jewelry were preferred, which during this period were set with precious stones or decorated with enamel.
During the Middle Ages, the high goldsmithing skills of previous cultures were largely forgotten. The only gold jewelry that was still highly valued at that time was the gold ring.

In the 15th century, this changed fundamentally and gold jewellery was once again valued more highly. Enamelled figurative depictions and floral patterns dominated its appearance.
In contrast to the more playful designs of previous centuries, the 17th century brought more formal designs with faceted gemstones and pearls.
Matching sets of necklaces , earrings, rings and brooches set the tone in the 18th century.

In the 19th century, a growing interest in archaeology led to the revival of various ancient styles of gold jewellery from the Greeks, Romans and Etruscans, while at the same time the technical skills of goldsmiths improved. Towards the end of the century, Art Nouveau, with its floral forms, also influenced the design of gold jewellery.

At the beginning of the 20th century, the geometrically abstract style of Art Deco dominated, which still forms the basis for many designs by famous jewelry manufacturers today.