The Origins of Valentine’s Day: A Jewellery Love Affair
Valentine’s Day as it’s known now, is all about pinks, reds and heart shapes. From chocolates to gemstones, it’s about celebrating love in the sweetest ways. But, its roots can be traced all the way back to ancient Rome, though those original origins are less about love and more about some rather unorthodox celebrations.
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The Origins
The Romans celebrated a festival called Lupercalia from February 13th to 15th, which (long story short) was all about fostering fertility. A version of this can be seen in an episode of the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina on Netflix, which will give a rough idea of what went on. The big day we know and love today is thought to take its name from Saint Valentine, a third-century Roman priest who secretly married couples against Emperor Claudius II’s orders.
Legend has it that before his execution, Valentine wrote a letter signed ‘From your Valentine’, a phrase that has since cemented his position as the patron saint of love and couples.
In 496 AD, Pope Gelasius I declared February 14th St Valentine’s Day and over the centuries, it evolved, embracing the romance. By the Middle Ages, exchanging notes of affection had become popular, with Shakespeare and Chaucer adding poetic flair to the day’s reputation. Leave it to the Bard to let everyone feel the love.
From Paper Hearts to Precious Gems
In the 19th century, Valentine’s Day was firmly embraced by merchants trying to sell their romantic trinkets. The Industrial Revolution made it easier to produce greeting cards, but it wasn’t long before another industry seized the opportunity. Jewellery.
By the late Victorian era, gifting jewellery on Valentine’s Day had become a trend, with specially designed lockets and brooches symbolising eternal love. Diamonds, of course, reigned supreme, with their lustful sparkle making them the perfect metaphor the occasion.
Today, Valentine’s Day is second only to Christmas in terms of jewellery gifting. From heart shaped gems and pendants to custom-engraved bracelets or earrings, the tradition of expressing love through jewellery continues to thrive. After all, putting on that special piece from that special person is the loveliest feeling of all.
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Celebrities Heart Valentine’s Day
If there’s one group that takes Valentine’s jewellery to extravagant heights, it’s celebrities. Over the years, Hollywood has gifted us with some inspiring Valentine’s Day gestures, many involving spectacular jewels. Stars like John Legend, Kristen Stewart, and Blake Lively have provided glimpses into just how they embrace the romance of the day.
David Beckham is known for marking special occasions with jewellery, having gifted Victoria a dazzling ruby ring as part of her already extensive collection. On Valentine’s Day, their love for extravagant gifts is often on full display, with a masterclass of mixing sentiment and luxury.
Royals have also been known to add some sparkle to this most romantic of days. Prince Harry reportedly gave Meghan Markle a bespoke diamond bracelet for their first Valentine’s Day together, a subtle but meaningful nod to their blossoming love story.
From its rather rowdy beginnings in ancient Rome to the glittering displays of modern romance, Valentine’s Day has certainly come a long way. Its connection to jewellery feels almost poetic, as both speak to the lasting beauty and importance of love.
So, whether you’re planning to gift a diamond ring, a ruby necklace, or simply a heartfelt note, remember that it’s about the love that the present represents. That said, a bit of sparkle never hurt anyone.
