When is Valentine's Day?
Valentine's Day is celebrated on the 14th February which falls on a Tuesday this year.
What is the history of Valentine's Day?
There is actually quite a lot that is unknown about the history of Valentine's Day. Of course it didn't originate as a day of love it was Christian feast day when people honoured Christian martyrs named Saint Valentine. The more romantic notion of Valentine's Day likely didn't come about for another 1000 years or so.
How do we celebrate Valentine's Day?
Valentine's Day isn't celebrated in every country of the world but in those that do we are well accustomed to seeing a sea of roses, hearts, chocolate and gifts in shops whether you like it or not!
What about cards?
Cards didn't become popular until the 20th century. The first one is said to have been written in 1415 when the Duke of Orléans sent a card to his wife while he was he was a prisoner in the Tower of London.
Symbols of love
Popular symbols of love that I have embraced in my jewellery designs include:
The Apple - of course we all know about the apple and its embodiment of temptation from the Garden of Eden but it is also a symbol of much more including hope for a successful relationship when it was a custom of marriage many centuries ago.
Love letter Scroll
Roses are such a strong visual for Valentine's gifts. Give roses that will last forever! I created my earring collection from wax before casting them. I have also produced necklaces and bracelets with an old letter wax stamp. for an additional romantic / heritage element.
Red in its own right is also a powerful representation of love and in jewellery that means Rubies! In Western countries the interpretation of red is of love and passion because it is the colour of blood. It has of course become synonymous with Valentine's Day.
Love it or hate it I hope it brings you everything you wish for!