History of EarringsWritten by Sher Matsen
Continued from page 1 During early 1800, jewelers began to mount gemstones, on an open back claw setting. This allowed light to pass through gems enhancing their color and brilliance. By 1850s, earrings had once again disappeared from fashion scene. This was once again a result of changing hairstyles. The new styles that involved wearing hair gathered in a knot at back resulted in ears being totally hidden. As well bonnets had arrived on scene which also made wearing earrings rather difficult. During early 20th century screw backs were invented which meant women no longer had to pierce their ears. These became very popular. Some circles even began to believe piercing ones ears was rather barbaric. After WWI shorter hairdos became very popular. Earrings were perfect for filling space from short hair to shoulder and once again became a popular fashion statement. During 1920s art deco styles took hold, recognized by their straight or angled designs. Very long chandelier earrings were also quite popular during this time. During 1930s clip on was invented. Because clip ons held earring more snuggly than screw backs they became number one choice for many years to come. Pierced ears faded into background. During 1950s earrings were light and aerodynamic. By 1960s earrings had become fun and innovative. Texture and color was very important. Prior to 1960s earrings were dedicated to either evening wear or day wear with evening wear earrings being more elegant. During 1960s this all changed when distinction between what was acceptable for evening or day faded away. By 1970s we had entered an “everything goes” style to earrings and pierced ears had made a comeback. Women were buying earrings in large quantities for every occasion. . Today it’s difficult to find someone who doesn’t have pierced ears. Today men are as interested in earrings as women. Men often prefer studs or small hoops, they may wear one earring, two or more depending on individual’s tastes. Children now get their ears pierced often at a very young age, even sometimes as babies. Women may have anywhere from one set of holes to piercings right up ear. The fashion of earrings has come a long way over years and its here to stay! Whatever your style, there is certain to be a pair of earrings out there for you. Be sure to make your fashion statement!

© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved. About the author: Sher has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing affordable estate jewelry, and a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty with on staff industry professionals. Please visit us at Estate Jewelry International.
| | Pearl TalkWritten by Sher Matsen
Continued from page 1 • Pearl rings get green flag – from low settings to monster large solitaire pearls, they are all rave. A pearl ring can go from romantic and simple to sleek and stunning. • The Bib Necklace makes a very dramatic statement. A broad necklace that tapers towards back just like a baby’s bib [thus name]. They range from extremely wide to as narrow as a ˝”. This style works great with a simple black dress or strapless neckline. • The multi-strand necklace is ever so preppy. They range from 12” to 18” and pearls are usually small to medium. The object of these necklaces is for every pearl to be in perfect placement. Very versatile and fashionable. • The opera length necklace simply never disappears from fashion scene. They measure 36” or longer and they can be worn as a long single lean line, doubled up, tied in a knot, wherever moment takes you. These long strands are terrific for dressing up a pair of jeans or semi casual look. • The tassel necklace from footloose and fancy free1920s has made a come back, and rightly so! Today tassels are often made from tiny seed pearls or irregular baroques. They range in length fro short at 16” to navel length at 36”. The tassel necklace swings and sways with your movement making it a must have for those night of dancing. • This season for first time, we are seeing pearls mixed with colored gems such as amethyst, peridot, or topaz. They compliment each other nicely – pearls with their soft and subtle shades mixed with semi precious gems with their vibrant and bold color. Picture it – what a fashion statement! • Pearls mixed with silver is also new this season. Long silver chain dangle earrings accented with pearls, or freshwater droplets set on silver. • This season pearl is all about color. Pearls are available in many hues but this season “hot spot” is “lavender” and lavender family ranging from pale iris to plum. If you already own a beautiful classic pearl necklace its very easy to transform it into something from this season. Try adding a group of charms or pendants, fastening a vintage brooch or clip[ on earring at bottom. You could mix various lengths or sizes of pearls together or entwine a silver or gold chain. How about mixing your real pearls with your fake pearls? The options are as endless as your imagination. Remember when you freshen your wardrobe for spring, freshen your costume jewelry too and Make Your

© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved. About the author: Sher has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing affordable estate jewelry, and a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty with on staff industry professionals. Please visit us at Estate Jewelry International.
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