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HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Citizen, 1986-02-12, Page 13�vcide2 16 THE CITIZEN, WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1986. PAGE 13. Fascinating traditions about jewellery From the earliest of times through today, people have been fascinated by gems and jewelry. In earlier days, wars were fought over gemstones, and legends were invented about them. Today, we still search for them, study them and collect them. And, according to Jewelers of America, the national association of 12,000 retail jewelers across the United States, although lifestyles, goals and values have changed, the symbol of love attached to a gemstone has never changed. Today's couples still express their sentiments with jewelry...the universal symbol of love. When did it all begin? Before written history. Yet, some of the traditions and folklore that existed before man could read or write have endured through the centur- ies. In fact, even today, gemstones are often selected on the basis of long -ago conceived folklore. In which month were you born? When is your wedding anniver- sary? How long have you been married? There are legendary colours and gemstones for every month and for every year of marriage. There's added enjoy- ment by knowing some of the folklore behind your precious choice. A few examples: •The green emerald signifies growing love. In addition, it was said to strengthen the memory and to help its owner become an eloquent speaker. It was also thought to give the power to predict the future and to make people more intelligent and honest. • The amethyst symbolized protection, peace, tranquility, pie- ty, spiritual wisdom, humility, sincerity and contentment. It was also said to protect a person against intoxication, to improve the com- plexion and to prevent baldness. A dream of amethyst meant the dreamer was safe from harm. • The aquamarine, in its shades of blue, comes from the Greek word 1 T/1e Jane„ SJ10,, ...a gift store with a difference Much more than linens. Unique gifts in every price range for showers and weddings. Note to Brides: See the many gift ideas for your attendants. Whether you buy or not, you owe it to yourself to visit this elegant gift store. 13 Market Place Stratford 273-0221 Behind City Hall Around the cornerfromAvon Theatre for sea water and is therefore the gemstone of sailors, possessing the calming effects of the sea, and aids those who travel by water. It was also thought to establish happy marriages. Should harmony flee, it would help reconcile the partners' differences. • The red Ruby signified peace and health. Never make faces at a ruby or ignore one, because it will grow dull if slighted or not worn or seen. • Marriage partners used to put great faith ina sapphire, which signified fidelity because, if its luster dimmed, one knew that his or her spouse had been unfaithful. • The topaz was said to improve dimness of vision, and the peridot was used as a remedy for sinus problems. • The ever -popular diamond has a long history of folklore and tradition. It was considered a bearer of victory and an emblem of fearlessness and invincibility; it was said to drive away ghosts if worn on the left arm. It was reputed a protection against poison and a bringer of good fortune. It was even said that it could make the wearer invisible! There are endless wondrous stones and legends, according to Jewelers of America, and specially designated colors and gems for birthstones and wedding anniver- sary stones. 4,4)_1„ colt kgion. 4.6Bridcaf (No Your Complete Bridal Centre 53 Downie Street, Stratford Special Showroom on Second Floor 273-0023 Monday to Thursday and Saturday 9-5:30 Friday 9-9. Thursday evening by appointment Photo by Ridgewood Studios Accessories 7 Headpieces 7 Gloves n Crinolines n Ringbearer Pillows GOWNS 7 WEDDING Gowns Petite, Regular, Oversize Bridesmaid Dresses Cocktail length - Formal Mother of the Bride Cocktail length Formal. 7 Going Away Outfits Petite, regulor, oversize, cocktail, waltz, floor length ?Satin Shoes 9 Parasols 9Hoops 7 Garters Services d Invitations 9 Flowers 7 Disc Jockeys 9 Photography 7 Wedding Cakes 7 Tuxedo Rentals