https://www.wehoautodetail.com/blogs/education.atom Elegant Wearing Jewelry,Jewellery And Accessories | Fast And Easy Returns 2024-05-21T09:00:04-06:00 wehoautodetail https://www.wehoautodetail.com/blogs/education/hecatolite-101-a-guide-to-the-different-types-of-moonstone 2022-03-07T09:00:00-07:00 2024-01-17T20:26:02-07:00 Elegant Wearing Jewelry,Jewellery And Accessories | Fast And Easy Returns Deven Davis

Romans believed moonstone formed from frozen moonlight. All types of moonstone are undoubtedly pretty. Learn more about them in this complete guide.

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Hecatolite 101: A Guide to the Different Types of Moonstone

Romans believed moonstone formed from frozen moonlight. All types of moonstone are undoubtedly pretty. Learn more about them in this complete guide.

Keyword(s): types of moonstone

  

 

Moonstone is an incredibly popular type of stone that's used in many types of jewelry. It's had an interesting history, with some ancient cultures believing that the stone was made from moonbeams. The soft color and vibrant luminosity result in an amazing glow as if the stone was carved directly from the moon's surface.  

There are many types of moonstone that come in various colors and sheens. Each type has its own specific set of qualities and characteristics. 

This article will go over the different types of moonstone, so you can learn more about this ancient and beautiful stone. 

What Is Moonstone?

Part of the feldspars mineral family, moonstone is an opalescent stone that is found in a variety of colors. The clarity of the stones ranges from opaque to transparent. Moonstone is also one of June's birthstones and was one of the first ones established in 1912. 

The way moonstone plays with the light is called adularescence. That's caused by how the light refracts when it hits the different layers of albite and orthoclase inside of the stone. That process gives the stone the appearance of having floating light inside of it. 

There are many different types and colors of moonstone. Let's explore some of the most popular types. 

Blue Moonstone

Blue moonstone has a transparent and crystal clear surface. Its surface makes it easy for you to see the floating blue color inside. The bold blue color is one of the most popular types of moonstone. 

The best and largest stones come from Burma. However, over the years, finding good blue moonstones has become more difficult. This has resulted in the price of blue moonstones going up. 

Blue moonstone has a lot of different layers. Jewelers have to be careful when working with it since it's so brittle it can break when put under pressure.  

Some believe that blue moonstones have healing energies. It's also thought that the stone promotes inner vision and mental clarity. It keeps the person in contact with the stone focused and aware to their surroundings. 

Rainbow Moonstone

Rainbow moonstone has a patchy, milk look due to the empty orthoclastic textures and inclusions. The reflection of the different inclusions and layers results in a rainbow effect when light hits it. Rainbow moonstones are commonly used in silver moonstone jewelry

You'll usually find a rainbow moonstone as a creamy, white stone with random painted or iridescent flashes. These flashes range from semitranslucent to opaque. 

This form of moonstone is ideal for seeing different colors in natural lighting. Rainbow moonstone can be found in many parts of the world, including:

  • Russia
  • Sri Lanka
  • China
  • India
  • Malagasy
  • Australia 

It's also typically found in small amounts. 

Rainbow moonstone is thought to have healing properties. It connects to your mental state and emotions, protecting you from negative influences. It's also thought by some to have protective properties. 

Pink Moonstone

Pink moonstone doesn't encompass only the shade of pink. Its hue includes pops of color from peach to honey to beige. 

The stone's shine is white and often has the appearance of a star or cat's eye on its surface. Pink moonstone is often commonly used for painted bead columns. 

Pink or peach moonstones are believed to help people rekindle their inner passion. It works to stimulate their mind, bring out the best in people, and fight their anxiety. Some people also believe that it helps calm anger and depression. 

Green Moonstone

Green moonstone isn't as common as blue or rainbow moonstones but still is very visually appealing. It appears slightly transparent or white, with a light yellow-green color budding underneath. 

Silver Moonstone

Silver moonstone is translucent and appears grey and silver in color. Some also refer to it as the "Stone of the New Moon" since they believe it has the powers and secrets of each new moon cycle. 

Others believe that the stone brings with it a sense of calm. They also think that it awakens an intuitive and reflective power during the full moon. This could help people ease their frustration. 

Others believe that silver moonstone helps treat insomnia. They'll place a silver moonstone under their pillow, believing it will give them a more restful night's sleep. 

White Moonstone 

White moonstone has a watery and soft opacity and is silvery-white in color.  This type of stone is considered one of the favorite materials when working with both silver and gold jewelry in ancient India. 

Some believe that white moonstone embodies the new moon's energy when at its peak. They also think that it stimulates psychic visions, dreamwork, and perception. Some people think that it can help heighten a person's emotions. 

In ancient cultures, white moonstone was an incredibly valued talisman. It was used to develop intuition and attract luck. People would wear the stone to feel calm during difficult changes in their lives. 

Are Labradorite and Moonstone the Same Thing?

Some jewelers and jewelry retailers use the terms labradorite and moonstone interchangeably, but they're not the same. Labradorite is also part of the feldspar family and is formed in basalt, norite, and gabbro formations. 

Some labradorite stones have the schiller effect. The schiller effect happens when the light scintillates in various ways because of the structure on the inside of the crystal. It's not the same type of light effect that moonstone has. 

Moonstones refract less light than labradorite does. Labradorite is a bit more common than moonstone and is, therefore, less expensive. 

The most common difference between the two is their colors. Moonstone comes in a variety of sheens but will typically display one color. Labradorite displays a full range of colors. 

Explore the Different Types of Moonstone

With so many types of moonstone available, it's fun to explore the different shades to find your favorites. Due to their delicate nature, moonstone jewelry pairs well with any outfit and occasion. 

Shop our full collection of moonstone jewelry today. 

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https://www.wehoautodetail.com/blogs/education/a-brief-history-of-hoop-earrings 2019-07-29T12:00:00-06:00 2024-01-17T20:31:02-07:00 Elegant Wearing Jewelry,Jewellery And Accessories | Fast And Easy Returns Deven Davis Are you a fan of hoop earrings? Learn the history of hoop earrings and gain a new perspective on this beloved and powerful style.

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A Brief History of Hoop Earrings
Are you a fan of hoop earrings? Learn the history of hoop earrings and gain a new perspective on this beloved and powerful style.

Keyword(s): history of hoop earrings

 

While hoop earrings are one of the lightest pieces of jewelry you can wear, they carry the weight of the world. As one of the oldest accessories in human existence, hoop earrings have significant meanings for different cultures.

While they were once worn by kings and queens to signify power and social status, hoop earrings are now considered a statement of unity and strength. Hoop earrings stand out, just like the strong women who sport them.

Keep reading to explore the history of hoop earrings and to learn how they have evolved over the years. 

History of Hoop Earrings

Hoops have been around almost as long as humans have. From ancient Egyptians to American style icons, both men and women have sported the famous look.

Origin of Hoop Earrings

Hoop earrings were worn by ancient Greeks, Romans, Asians, and Egyptians. What began as a way to identify tribal members turned into symbols of religion and power within societies.

The first hoop earrings originated around 2500 B.C.E. in Nubia, an African civilization located in what we now call Sudan. The ear jewelry was created in gold, silver, and bronze. In 1000 B.C.E., tapered hoop earrings spread to other cultures around the world.

In 1500 B.C.E., Egyptian men and women both flaunted gorgeous hoops on their ears. They believed earrings enhanced a person's beauty and were made using twisted gold wire and beads. Royal Egyptians wore heavy and thick gold hoops to symbolize their wealth and power.

Ancient Roman and Greek art show that these cultures embraced hoop earrings as well. The jewelry was predominately worn by women, but men with high social status sometimes sported hoop earrings as well. In ancient Persia, carvings depict soldiers wearing a single hoop earring in each ear.

Fast Forward to the 1600s

Europe saw a decline in ear jewelry through the 1600s. This was largely due to elaborate hairstyles, headpieces, high collared clothing that covered the ears. 

During the 1700s Century, small, pear-shaped pearl earrings were more popular throughout European cultures than hoops. This is also when men began cutting back on their earring usage and would instead only sport the jewelry in one ear.

During the 1820s, light hoop earrings were more popular than heavy-weight pendant jewelry. Fashion trends during this time replicated historical styles with heavy inspiration from Roman cultures that led to greater popularity in large, gold hoops. 

Hoop Earrings in the 20th Century

In the United States in the 1900s, there was a mix of negativity around hoop earrings. Many people saw them as symbolizing Native American and Latino culture. Many American women stopped wearing earrings altogether so they would not be categorized as an immigrant.

The stigma surrounding ear piercings in the United States was short-lived. By 1910, simpler hairstyles, lower cut outfits, and updos that flaunted the ears instead of hiding them. This led to a rebirth of earring popularity among American women.

The early 1920s introduced exotic styles that brought the hoop earring back into the spotlight in America thanks to Spanish and Egyptian influences. The discovery of King Tutankhamen's tomb in 1922 rebirthed the notion of gold hoop earrings symbolizing power and high social status.

The updos and short hairstyles of the 1920s and 30s made earrings an essential finishing touch to outfits. Shoulders were being exposed with low-cut blouses, and a pair of gorgeous hoops matched perfectly. American entertainer Josephine Baker loved wearing gold hoops on stage.

Hoop earrings were the signature look of the 1960s as they matched with the clean, straight-hair trend of the decade. During the 1970s, hoops in silver, chrome, kinetic, and tribal designs were very popular. Cher and Diana Ross were notorious for flaunting large hoops with intricate designs.

The 1980s brought new jewelry designs with jagged shapes and drops. This pushed hoop earrings to the back burner temporarily, although the design never went out of style.

Hoops continued to be popular among women throughout the 1990s and early 2000s thanks to hip hop culture and Latino influence.

The Meaning Behind the Hoops

Hoop earrings are worn by many people throughout the world today and continue to be one of the oldest fashion trends alive.

Hoops are empowering. They symbolize strength and international fashion. Being a circle, hoop earrings show unity, infinity, and wholeness. 

Hoop earrings have been a staple of Latino culture. As minorities and immigrants in America and Europe, hoop earrings became a symbol of strength, identity, and resistance to discrimination. For young Latino girls, it is common to receive a pair of small hoop earrings at a young age from their mothers or grandmothers.

Hoop earrings are for the bold. With so many different designs and sizes, hoop jewelry stands out more than any other type of earring. Stud piercings blend in and can be easily overlooked while dangling hoops demand attention.

Cardi B, Michelle Obama, Jennifer Lopez, and Beyonce are just some of the influential women in today's culture who love sporting hoops. They are seen as more than just fashion pieces, but respectful nods to the Dominican and African cultures where they originated from.

Stay in the Loop

Hoop earrings are a staple of many different cultures and continue to evolve as both a fashion accessory and symbol of strength. Understanding the vast history of hoop earrings should make you proud to flaunt the bold and beautiful apparel.

Stay in the loop with all things jewelry by following our blog. We've got all of the tips, tricks, and advice you're looking for. Click here to check it out.

 

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https://www.wehoautodetail.com/blogs/education/marcasite 2018-06-15T15:08:00-06:00 2024-01-17T20:34:03-07:00 Elegant Wearing Jewelry,Jewellery And Accessories | Fast And Easy Returns Deven Davis You may already know that marcasite can make some very stunning and unique jewelry pieces. Did you also know that it has meaning, history, and is even known for its healing powers? Learn more about the wonders of Marcasite here!

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Stunning and Unusual Marcasite Jewelry: Meaning, History, and Healing

You may already know that marcasite can make some very stunning and unique jewelry pieces. Did you also know that it has meaning, history, and is even known for its healing powers? Learn more about the wonders of Marcasite here!

Keyword(s): PKW: marcasite SKW: what is marcasite, marcasite meaning, marcasite mineral, marcasite jewelry history, marcasite stone

You've probably seen it on your friends, on celebrities and in the jewelry store: marcasite.

Easily recognizable because of its brilliant shine, marcasite is a popular choice for anyone wishing to add a bit of pizazz to their look.

But do you know what it is or where it originated?

Don't worry; most people don't.

However, the history and powers behind the mineral make it all the more attractive--and all the more mystical.

Care for a history lesson? We guarantee it will make you appreciate that piece of marcasite jewelry you've been curious about all the more.

What Is Marcasite?

A common (and completely understandable) confusion surrounds marcasite's use in jewelry.

The pieces we refer to as marcasite are actually not made from the marcasite mineral. Can you guess what they are really made of?

Fool's gold.

Also known as iron pyrite, fool's gold boasts just as spectacular of a sheen as the real marcasite. Because many would confuse the two, eventually it led to the jewelry's common name of marcasite today. The name simply stuck.

While its chemical makeup is literally identical to fool's gold, actual marcasite crystallizes differently, putting it in a completely different mineral species.

While beautiful, it is not used for jewelry because it crumbles into a fine dust when handled, making it unsuitable for any sort of manipulation.

On the other hand, fool's gold is much more durable, making it the prime candidate of the only two yellow metallic minerals that are hard enough to be used for jewelry.

So when we say "marcasite" throughout this article, know we are secretly whispering "iron pyrite" under our breaths.

How Is It Made?

The mineral pyrite forms under a wide variety of environmental conditions. It is extremely common in hydrothermal veins, but it can also be produced by magma or stalactite growth.

In fact, in the oceans, iron pyrite is dispelled from hydrothermal vents as small, microscopic particles. These widespread particles act like a vitamin for life, giving the sea creatures the iron they need.

So you'll find this mineral here and there and a bit of everywhere if you know what to look for.

Healing Powers

But iron pyrite's effectiveness is not limited to sea critters' well-being.

The Healing Power of Gold

Gold has long been associated with healing powers and deities. In fact, the Inca civilization believed gold was sweat descended to Earth from the Sun God. Gold has also been used in the medical realm for dental work or a defense against "magic potions."

Fool's gold, however, seems to lend its healing powers to the internal mind and spirit.

Fool's Gold

According to Doreen Virtue and Judith Lukomski's Crystal Therapy, "This mineral assists you in creating material abundance, and meditation with pyrite increases your ability to balance energies by providing a stabilizing force."

Fool's gold also strengthens your resolve, boosts confidence and helps manifest positive things in your life.

The Science

Lest you think it's all nonsense made for fools (heh, see what we did there?), science also points to the fact that it regulates oxygen. In fact, it's responsible for almost 80% of the sulfur removed from the ocean.

Why does that matter? Because that sulfur turns into the oxygen we breathe.

So while scientists may have once thought pyrite played a minimal role in oxygen formation, they have recently discovered quite the opposite.

As for the supposed healing powers of gold, well. Let's just say scientists are a tad more skeptical.

A Key to the Fey Realm

One last fun fact: fool's gold is said to be coveted by faeries.

As a result, you will sometimes hear iron pyrite be referred to as "fairy's gold."

Fairy's gold. Iron pyrite. Marcasite.

It all gets rather confusing, we know. Perhaps the real reason behind the many names lies with the tricky Fey creatures themselves.

History

Iron pyrite's first use can arguably be one of humankind's greatest discoveries: fire.

Early Years

The mineral's name derives from a Greek phrase meaning "stone which strikes fire."

To the early generations, this stone was invaluable because of this characteristic, especially to the Eskimos and Fuegians. However, other findings indicate early uses may have also been for mirrors and dye.

What else do you think it was used for?

You guessed it. You didn't think ancient people would pass up such beauty on jewelry, did you?

Civilizations in China, Greece, Egypt and South America used fool's gold for necklaces, rings and the like. It was even rumored to have been worn by Cleopatra.

The Incan civilization especially is noted as being the first recorded people to have used fool's gold for jewelry, with archaeological findings dating its use between 1100 to 1500. It has especially been discovered in burial sites.

The 1700s

After the early civilizations, the mineral's use in jewelry becomes somewhat hazy. That is, until the 1700s.

In early Europe, marcasite jewelry once again made a comeback, ironically through a distinction of the classes.

When the Sumptuary Laws were put into effect, the idea was to enforce clear differences between higher and lower classes. Women of lower classes were forbidden to wear or purchase diamonds and other such rarities.

The result was a great demand for marcasite, which was just as beautiful and much less expensive.

The Victorian Era

Starting from the late 1830s to the early 1900s, Britain was under the rule of Queen Victoria. Her reign also ignited interest in iron pyrite jewelry, although by this time it was widely used.

After the death of her husband, Prince Albert, in 1861, Queen Victoria mourned his death until she passed away in 1901. (The regular mourning period for a husband was two years, by the way. Talk about devotion!)

She requested her entire court to wear black, and she herself dressed as a widow. Etiquette during times of grief was strict, and to adhere to it the Queen began wearing marcasite jewelry.

During her reign, mourning etiquette was all the rage (many would fashion jewelry out of the deceased one's hair), and following her new choice in jewelry marcasite once again became a fashionable attire choice.

The Art Deco Movement

Prohibition raged. There were flappers and cocktail parties.

While Victorian thoughts persisted, society found itself largely pushing against them in the 1920s and 1930s.

In swept the Art Deco Movement, which paraded through Europe and America and modernized fashion, including jewelry. Using the new-age machines of the era, it blended vivid color combinations to provide stark contrast.

As the fashion centered on new times, natural elements were often used in combination with man-made ones. One common design included crystals and diamonds to contrast with the "bold whiteness of platinum." In fact, diamonds were especially common.

Because geometry and hardness were also important in this movement, the faces found on iron pyrite, its sparkling texture and its low cost made marcasite a valuable commodity and cost-efficient alternative for those who couldn't afford diamonds.

WWII

Shortly after the Art Deco Movement, World War II erupted and pyrite became valuable for a much different reason.

With the fervor of wartime came an increased demand for sulfur, which was integral in the success of the Industrial Revolution. Sulfuric acid became the staple chemical for production, and it was (and is) necessary for almost all produced goods.

In fact, it is so significant to industrial production that it has been called the "workhorse chemical of the industrial world."

During the War, however, sulfur was in short supply. As a result, the government turned to other means from which sulfur could be extracted.

As you may guess, iron pyrite once again jumped to the center stage.

Today

Today, marcasite jewelry has become a common and accessible commodity. Because of its old-world charm and relatively inexpensive price, it's a common choice in jewelry.

Generally, a marcasite stone is set in sterling silver to better show off its shine and can be worn in virtually any environment.

It's so popular that it rivals diamonds. And, really, why shouldn't it? You get almost the same beauty for a fraction of the price.

Value

Irony pyrite pieces usually do not hold particular value unless they are ancient relics. However, don't be so quick to move on.

Geologists sometimes use it as a marker, as the presence of fool's gold can indicate priceless gems are nearby.

While we don't expect you to undertake mining anytime soon, it's an interesting fact that does make it valuable to geologists and miners.

Further, just because a marcasite ring or necklace won't sell for hundreds of dollars doesn't mean it's virtually worthless. A 1918 brooch would net about $120.

Sure, it's not hitting the jackpot, but when you consider other minerals, metals or stones commonly used in jewelry, it's not awful.

Upkeep

Jewelry made with fool's gold is extremely easy to maintain.

Avoid getting the piece wet, as it can loosen the stones and encourage them to fall out of their settings. Even when the piece is being cleaned, it should not be splashed or submerged in water.

Do not use steamers, chemicals or ultrasonic chemicals to clean the jewelry. This may damage it.

Instead, take a soft cloth and gently wipe the piece. The cloth can be dry or damp, but it should remove any tarnish on the outside of the stone.

If a damp cloth is used, be sure to let the jewelry dry completely before use.

Also, avoid excessive sweating while wearing the jewelry. If you plan to partake in any sports or exert yourself, take it off until you have finished.

That's all there is to it! It's that easy to clean.

As an added bonus, the more you wear a piece of jewelry made with iron pyrite, the less likely it is to tarnish.

How to Check for Authenticity

Marcasite jewelry can be easily confused with other stamped steel or stamped sterling. However, if you know what to watch for you'll be able to spot a vintage piece wherever you travel:

  • The stones should have facets. They should not face the same direction.
  • The stones should be set or glued to the base. If there is a rivet on the back, it is not authentic.
  • Most are six-sided.
  • Glitter check! Yes, it will glitter almost as wonderfully as a diamond.
  • Usually, it will be set in sterling silver.
  • It is not magnetic, so if you hold up a magnet and it zooms towards it, you know you've got a false item on your hands.

If you are checking for age, take a very close look at the setting. Old pieces were set stone by stone; the maker would literally curl the base metal over each one.

Yes, it had to have taken eons.

And, yes, you'll probably need a magnifying glass.

Further, it's normal to have a few missing stones in older pieces. Don't immediately toss it to the side just because a few have been lost to the ages. If anything, that lends weight to the testament of its age.

Benefits

As we're sure you've gathered, this jewelry type is a fantastic choice for a variety of reasons.

  • The simplicity and elegance of marcasite will let you wear it to any occasion. Formal attire? Check. Casual day at the beach? Check.
  • This jewelry is super easy to take care of. No nonsense chemicals and complicated instructions; just a gentle wipe and lots of wear.
  • The mineral itself is easily manipulated, meaning if you need to get it fitted or resized it's usually a cinch to do so.
  • Fool's gold is very accessible. It's easy to find.
  • Further, it's inexpensive. You can get a stunning pair of angle post earrings for €39.99.
  • Finally, fool's gold is breathtaking. It offers plenty of room for creativity in jewelry, and its eye-catching glimmer is beautiful to behold. That gives you plenty of wiggle room to stand out from the crowd with something that didn't break your bank account.

Where to Purchase

We guarantee you won't find the quality, craftsmanship or service we offer anywhere else! Browse our selection of marcasite jewelry today and take your pick.

The Rose Pendant is one of our personal favorites, but you're sure to find something that just screams "you."

It's your turn to sparkle.

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https://www.wehoautodetail.com/blogs/education/marcasite-jewelry-a-history-of-the-modern-classic 2017-08-07T13:07:00-06:00 2024-01-17T20:38:21-07:00 Elegant Wearing Jewelry,Jewellery And Accessories | Fast And Easy Returns Deven Davis Marcasite has a rich history as a luxury gem. Learn more about this timeless wardrobe staple and how it fits in your jewelry collection.

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Marcasite Jewelry: A History of the Modern Classic
Marcasite has a rich history as a luxury gem. Learn more about this timeless wardrobe staple.

Keyword(s): marcasite

For centuries, marcasite jewelry has been a symbol of regal high fashion for all social classes. 

Marcasite jewelry as we know it today is actually made from a closely related cousin, iron pyrite - commonly known as fool's gold. Pyrite looks very similar to Marcasite. However, it is much sturdier and it's also easier to make into jewelry pieces. 

Pure marcasite is actually very fragile. It can quickly turn to dust if not handled carefully. 

Although they were originally conceived as a less expensive alternative to diamonds, marcasite (pyrite) jewelry pieces have since taken on their own character and purpose. They've withstood many changes in fashion trends to gain the reliable reputation they have today. 

In Ancient Times

The earliest known use of pyrite as jewelry was during Incan rule in South America from about 1100-1500. Pyrite jewelry has been found in burial sites across Peru. 

The Incas may have also used large surfaces made of marcasite for various rituals and customs. 

Pyrite was also believed to be a favorite of the ancient Greeks.

In fact, the name of the mineral, "pyrite", comes from the Greek language. The "Pyr-" prefix indicates a relationship to fire. This is because ancient people would actually use the mineral to start fires. 

These fires would become the sustaining force for many ancient communities. This is why pyrite was so important in early antiquity. 

There is even evidence that indigenous cultures in North America used pyrite to cure sickness and promote health. They believed that pyrite could help purify the air one was breathing. This resulted in a variety of health benefits.

Pyrite also reportedly helps stabilize your mood and promote positive thinking. Some say it can even improve focus and clear your mind. This makes marcasite charms a popular choice for students and professionals all over the world. 

Although there is varied scientific evidence on these claims, it is widely believed that wearing pyrite jewelry is good for your physical and mental health. 

Later Years

Pyrite jewelry gained popularity due to the laws surrounding diamond distribution.

Diamonds were used as an instrument of separation by European nobility. If you were wearing diamonds, you were seen as a high-class person. Diamonds and other similar jewelry were not readily available to the common folk. 

Even if they could afford diamonds, commoners were sometimes restricted by law to live their lives without these precious gems in their jewelry. 

This is when the production of pyrite based jewelry started to grow. Common people wanted to purchase and wear jewelry. This was true even though the rich class tried to create a deeper class divide between them. 

Many people begin to seek out alternatives to diamonds. So, this stone was a low-cost, available option. The means through which this jewelry was sold was not always legal. However, this meant that supply and demand were great while costs were kept down. 

Some people even published reading material that taught people how to make their own pyrite jewelry. Soon, jewelry became more and more popular.

This was true no matter what class you belonged to. 

The Rise of Jewelry 

If they were able to afford jewelry, common people wanted to be able to wear it. Wearing jewelry, no matter what it was made from, became an extremely popular fashion statement. 

It was a way to flaunt wealth and display high-class sensibilities, regardless of class or social hierarchy. 

It wasn't until the Victorian era that the noble class began to desire pyrite jewelry for themselves, although it was for a solemn purpose. 

When Queen Victoria's consort passed away, she no longer felt that it was appropriate to wear lavish jewelry and flaunt her wealth. Instead, she turned to marcasite to help her through the mourning process.

As pyrite has a dark, silver-black hue, it was a suitable choice for funerals and other solemn occasions. Many people in her court and throughout Europe followed her lead. So, marcasite or pyrite jewelry became even more popular. 

During the North American Gold Rush, many people rushed to the western United States and Canada to harvest and sell gold. These prospectors were often used as fakes. This was because they resembled gold, but were worth much less. 

This is why pyrite is sometimes known as "Fool's Gold," although it is very useful and valuable in its own right. 

Marcasite Today

In modern times, this stone enjoys immense popularity, rivaling that of diamonds and other forms of jewelry. 

Many people choose pyrite jewelry for its old-world charm and historic appeal.

Some even use marcasite as a part of costumes for  Victorian-era characters at performances. 

It is typically set in silver to give it the gems a brilliant color contrast. These gems can be accompanied by amazing design settings. Some of these settings attempt to imitate the design styles of the past. Others attempt to create something new and fresh. 

Taking care of these silver settings requires some work. However, they do not require any more maintenance than what is necessary for jewelry pieces. 

How To Wear Your Jewelry

Pyrite jewelry is available for purchase in the form of rings, necklaces, brooches, earrings, and more. The beauty of pyrite is that it is applicable for virtually any setting that requires elegance. 

But despite its popularity, marcasite jewelry can still be an extremely unique fashion statement. Its sophistication makes it a fresh addition to any ensemble.

Marcasite is a great choice for people who want to stand out with their jewelry, without having to pay for expensive pieces.

Whether you decide to wear the gems as a part of a larger set or individually, your jewelry is sure to be the talk of your social group. 

Don't be afraid to treat yourself to a timeless jewelry set.

These gems have been around for the rise and fall of grand civilizations. This means that they've been popular for thousands of years!

Yet, they are held in the same high esteem they were held in centuries ago. Maybe our ancestors were on to something! 

 

SHOP OUR MARCASITE COLLECTION

Have any questions about marcasite jewelry or want to purchase some of your own? Please contact us! 

 

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