Jewelry with Religious Symbols – Special Gifts for the Holidays and After

Jewelry with religious symbols is as old as time.  The first humans wore religious signs and symbols for protection and identity.   Today, we continue that tradition.  The Star of David, the Cross, and the Buddhist word “Om” are frequently seen.   When represented in beautiful, unique, one of a kind   jewelry made by artists and craftsmen, they can take on additional very personal meanings.

Cross Earrings in Navy Blue by

http://www.etsy.com/shop/HippieChicJewelz

The Cross is represented in many ways.  When it has a rose on it, it adds a symbol for Mary, Jesus’ Mother.   Crosses made of natural stone bring to mind the solid foundation of Christianity resting on the word of God.

Dalmation Jasper Cross by

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ExoticTreasuresJewel

The Star of David has several meanings – all centered on God as the center of all.  One symbol is God’s rule over all six directions – North, South, East, West, Up and Down – with the solid inner core representing the spiritual core.   It is a 12 sided figure, representing the 12 tribes of Israel.  And of course, it is in the center of the Israeli flag and appears on synagogues all over the world.

Silver Star of David Earrings by

http://www.etsy.com/shop/GirlBurkeStudios

Om is a religious symbol and mantra chant for Hinduism and Buddhism.   It is a sound that is used for centering oneself for meditation.    According to Tibetan Buddhist beliefs, all material objects, all living beings came from the Primordial Vibration which is represented by Om. 

Tibetan Pendant, Turquoise, Coral and White Buffalo Stone Necklace by

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ExoticTreasuresJewel

Jewelry Based on Movies and Movie Characters - Ideas for Gift Giving

Daytime in Fork, Washington - Labradorite and Crystal Necklace by http://www.etsy.com/shop/ExoticTreasuresJewel

We all know the obvious pieces of movie based jewelry – the “One Ring” from Lord of the Rings, jewelry with pictures of characters from the Twilight series, and of course all the jewelry based on Disney classics and Harry Potter come immediately to mind.   There is another type of jewelry that is movie based, and that is the more subtle, almost subliminal reference that can be found in some uniquely designed, original pieces of jewelry available in craft shops on the web.

Cinderella's Coach by http://www.etsy.com/shop/Seedbeadwonderland

For example, a pirate’s treasure map can bring to mind Johnny Depp and the Pirates of the Caribbean  movie series.  A wizard can be from either Dumbledore from Harry Potter or Gandalf from the Lord of the Rings [and soon to be released Hobbit movie].

Goth Black Lace and Crystal Choker by

  http://www.etsy.com/shop/ExoticTreasuresJewel

Twilight movies and books can be represented by the most obvious Goth/Vampire styles or by something a little more understated, like a necklace that is evocative of the weather in Folk, Washington, or a deep moonlit night sky.  Just be sure there is no silver in those pieces of jewelry – we don’t want  Edward to burn his fingers as he slips the necklace around Bella’s neck.

Daytime in Fork, Washington Earrings by

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ExoticTreasuresJewel

Whichever you choose, be sure the jewelry is well made, original, unique, and special to you. 

Amazing Amber

Amber is amazing. It’s not a true gemstone because it isn’t an inorganic mineral like diamonds or lapis lazuli. It’s million year old tree sap. Just think, something as common, sticky and sometimes annoying as tree sap is converted over time into a warm, translucent, softly gleaming precious jewel.
It comes in several natural colors, from a clear, sun filled light lemon to a mandarin orange to a deep rich red brown cognac color to an olive green. Some pieces even encapsulate tiny insects and plant life from prehistoric times. Remember Jurassic Park?
Another wonderful quality of amber is its versatility. It can be worn with casual, business and formal clothes. The lighter colors, particularly the very bright, lemon yellow is perfect for casual wear. Slip it on with a t-shirt and a pair of jeans and go out to lunch or to a ball game. Tuck a mandarin orange colored amber necklace in the neck of a business blouse or over a turtleneck sweater and you are ready for work. Slip a warm, silky, cognac colored amber necklace around your neck for a luscious look as you go out for an evening on the town. And as for the green amber - well it is so fantastic and gorgeous that it can go anywere.
Whenever you wear amber, you can be confident that your natural beauty is sure to radiate.