Norma Stefanik

Evolution of the Jewelry Trade

The jewelry trade had its humble beginning in the days of the caveman. Today it’s a massive and flourishing industry. Jewelry is worn with everything from jeans and sneakers to elegant evening wear. How it all began is quite an interesting story.

The jewelry trade had its humble beginning in the days of the caveman. Today it’s a massive and flourishing industry. Jewelry is worn with everything from jeans and sneakers to elegant evening wear. How it all began is quite an interesting story.

Earliest forms of jewelry were worn by cavemen. Their jewelry was crudely fashioned of sea shells as well as animal teeth, claws or bones. Graves of prehistoric people have revealed beaded jewelry as well as jewelry made of ivory, wood or metal.

Studies of the ancient Egyptians revealed well-crafted jewelry. The Egyptians were probably the first to combine gemstones with gold or precious metals. The priests of Bible days wore breastplates made with rows of diamonds, emeralds and other gemstones.

Workers who made implements or weapons for battle became the first jewelry craftsmen.

As they worked with metals to make the implements of war, they discovered the fine art of using the metals to create precious jewelry.

The jewelry trade came to American with the first settlers. An artisan could repair a broken farm implement, a wagon wheel or fashion a wedding ring. New York City became the leader of the precious metal industry in the 1890’s with the first jewelry store opened at the beginning of the 19th century.

The 20th century ushered in machines which created jewelry and mass production began in manufacturing plants. Jewelry became more available and more affordable.  New York City is still the headquarters in the United States for the leading designers and artisans.

During the mid 1900’s jewelry artists began designing and creating their own specials lines of jewelry. These are sold in up-scale stores, boutiques or galleries. Today, jewelry is available in specialty jewelry stores, department stores, mall kiosks, craft shows, etc.

The Internet and television shopping channels also claim a large portion of jewelry sales.

Many celebrities now have their own line of jewelry. These are mostly sold on television or up-scale department stores. Usually the designs are high-fashion and elaborately crafted.

Jewelry is worn by men, women and children of all ages. It has become increasingly popular. There’s always joy in giving jewelry to mark major occasions such as engagements, weddings, birth of a child, anniversaries, etc. Jewelry will be around for eternity.

Article Tags: Jewelry Trade

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