The appreciation of beauty and the desire for adornment are intrinsic to our human nature, and the history of jewellery is a long one. Carved ivory bracelets dating from the Paleolithic era have been found, suggesting that before there was written language, agriculture or settled communities there was jewellery .

In every era since then, jewellery has reflected the society that created it. It has been used for trade, to seek favor from the gods, as a symbol of royalty and as a sign of wealth. Its aesthetics, too, have reflected its origins: from the bold motifs on the warrior jewellery of the Masai tribe to the Christian symbols on European jewellery dating from the Middle Ages.

The present era of fine jewellery – characterized by jewellery made of gold, platinum and gems, and available in a variety of styles and price ranges – dates from the mid-19th century. The predominant styles of jewellery since then conform to the general artistic movement of their times.

These include the Art Nouveau period (circa 1900), which was characterized by flowing lines, abstractions and the use of such design subjects as women, serpents, flowers and butterflies. Pearls and enameled looks were popular. Art Nouveau gave way to Art Deco styles in the 1920s. Designs were based on the play of almost severe geometric forms; a mix of gems was often used to colourful effect.

The 1940s ushered in the Retro period. Large brooches, pink gold, extravagant use of gems, and lush styling characterize the dominant aesthetic. It is early to say how cultural historians will describe the jewellery of our own era but one notable emphasis has been on eclecticism. Designs reflect a wide range of influences, borrow freely from all the eras previously, and reflect the individualism of both the jewelry’s designer and its wearer.