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Did you know that 51% of millennial women buy their own jewelry? The same 51% of millennials also make a buying decision based on their trust in the jewelry retailer. If you think this is interesting, wait until you hear other fun facts about jewelry.
Read on to learn about 11 facts about jewelry that you should know.
1. Jewelry Dates Back to 100,000 Years Ago
One of the best facts about jewelry is how long it has been around. These pieces weren’t made of gemstones or diamonds, they were a few beads made from shells.
2. The 4th Century Diamond
The first diamond was found in India all the way in the 4th century. Because they were so beautiful and durable, they became valuable. It wasn’t until the 18th century that people discovered diamonds weren’t only found in India.
3. Opal Was Highly Valued
Opal is a great gemstone these days, but during the 18th century, it was one of the most popular gemstones in Europe. A novel by Sir Walter Scott, Anne of Geierstein, led to the decrease in popularity of the opal. It was then known as an unlucky stone.
4. Engagement Rings Weren’t Always a Thing
The tradition of engagement rings wasn’t always around. Back in 1477, Maximilian Austria gave his love a promise ring. From there, it became a huge industry that we still enjoy now.
5. Diamond Is the Most Popular
For engagement rings, diamond is the most popular option. However, in 1939, every other gemstone was the more popular option.
6. There Is Such Thing as Live Insect Jewelry
Certain cultures use live insects as statement pieces. Insects like beetles and cockroaches are worn as types of jewelry that attach to clothing.
7. Pearls Are Organic
Many are aware that pearls are organic gemstones. But did you know they are the only gemstone that comes from a living animal?
8. Ruby and Sapphires Are Identical
Besides their name and color, ruby and sapphires are identical stones. Sapphires have multiple colors except for red. This is due to red sapphires being called rubies.
9. Princess Diana’s Ring Is the Most Recognizable
The sapphire engagement ring owned by Princess Diana is easily one of the most recognizable pieces of jewelry. Chances are, you already know exactly what we are talking about. If you want your jewelry to be unique and unrecognizable, this custom jewelry site is perfect.
10. Diamonds Can Get Replicated
Scientists in the 1950s came up with an alternative to mined diamonds that is inexpensive and more eco-friendly. This quick alternative to mined diamonds was created in a lab.
11. Mariah Carey Had the Most Expensive Engagement Ring
The last of the interesting jewelry facts is that Mariah Carey had the most expensive engagement ring in the world given to her by James Packer. The ring cost $10 million and Carey sold it for significantly less when the engagement was called off. That’s right, the two never even got married.
Facts About Jewelry You Never Knew
There are so many fun facts about jewelry that every jewelry lover can appreciate. This guide just scratches the surface of what you can learn about the jewelry industry. In the future, we can expect to hear even more fascinating jewelry facts as we learn more.
Check out our other fashion and beauty blog posts now for more content like this!