Valentine’s Day: The Roman Festival of Lupercalia?
February 11, 2009 by Sheryl Martinez · 2 Comments
No matter what critics say about the rampant commercialism of the occasion, Valentine’s sales from greeting cards, flowers, jewelry, and chocolates go up every year. In 2004 alone, about one billion cards are sent all over the world; a third of the seven billion pounds of candy/chocolates consumed that year was sold on Valentine’s day; 110 million roses were sold and more or less $2.4 billion worth of jewelry were bought and given away as gifts.
But how did the whole thing start? Although there are many versions of this particular history, there are only two likely relevant and reliable stories to be attributed to this ancient celebration.
According to the Catholic church, we celebrate the occasion to honor the martyred Saint Valentinus, a third-century priest who defied the orders of Emperor Claudius II not to perform marriage rites to members of his Army. The emperor believed that his troops should only be composed of single and unattached men. Emeperor Claudius ordered the priest beheaded on Feb 14 270AD for disobeying orders. But delving deeper into its origin, another interesting explanation emerges dating back to the ancient Roman fertility & purification festival then popularly known as Lupercalia.
The feast ran from February 13-15 and parts of the celebration included the anointing of young naked males who would go around and strike young women with a strip of goatskin (goats then being a symbol of sexual vigor). It was believed that this would bestow fertility to those struck (reminscient of Cupid striking with the amorous arrow).
On February 14th, names of unmarried maidens and young men were drawn and paired off to be lovers for a year. In essence, this ancient tradition was Christianized by adopting it into the catholic church official calendar. The feast was officially incorporated in 496 AD but was later dropped only to be reinstated in 1969, to continue into the present-day celebration of the Feast of St. Valentine.
Among the most popular gifts for Valentine’s Day includes jewelry which arguably is the most meaningful and enduring of all.
Apples of Gold offers quality and unique heart jewelry, diamond heart necklaces, and heart rings, including the unique 0.92 carat blue diamond heart pendant (shown above), the Heart Wedding Band in 14K Two-Tone Gold (shown middle) and the 0.25 Carat Heart Journey Necklace (shown left).
Visit Apples of Gold to secure that perfect Valentine’s Day Gift with fine gold jewelry, diamonds, and gemstones.
Show Your Love With Tahitian Black Pearls
February 5, 2009 by Yelena Jenkins · 1 Comment
According to Polynesian legend, the first black pearl oyster was given as a gift from Ono, god of peace and fertility, to the lovely princess of Bora Bora to show his eternal love and affection. Thanks to this beautiful romantic legend, Tahitian black pearls are considered a symbol of love. Along with their romantic connotations, Tahitian black pearls are incredibly rare and hard to culture. This further increases their value and makes them an exceptional gift for all occasions, including Valentine’s Day. Tahitian black pearls are the ideal choice for women who love jewelry but do not particularly like other popular Valentine’s Day options (such as heart-shaped jewelry or pink jewelry).
Apples of Gold is excited to offer our customers a beautiful selection of Tahitian black pearl jewelry. These gorgeous pearls make the perfect Valentine’s Day present, birthday present or holiday gift. Our Tahitian black pearl jewelry selection includes stunning rings, necklaces and earrings to choose from. We’ve highlighted some of our favorites below, all of which are great Valentine’s Day picks.
Tahitian Black Pearl and Diamond Ring
This bold, beautiful ring (seen at top) pops with a massive 10mm naturally cultured Tahitian black pearl set atop a white gold band. Thirty six small diamonds are encrusted in the solid white gold band for a sparkling backdrop against the gorgeous black pearl. This ring is a classic alternative to a cocktail ring; it’s big enough to make a statement but isn’t overpowering and can be worn daily if desired.
Natural Black Tahitian Pearl and Diamond Drop Pendant
Our Tahitian black pearl pendant necklace hangs delicately from a 14k white gold necklace. The exceptionally high quality pearl dangles from a white gold and diamond encrusted pendant that is vintage in design, making it a delightful choice for women who appreciate an enduring romantic style.
Natural Tahitian Round Pearl and Diamond Drop Earrings
Lovely dangling black pearl earrings look gorgeous when framing a woman’s face, and these beauties are no exception. Two large natural Tahitian pearls hang from solid white gold dangle posts and are topped with a contemporary diamond encrusted design. These black pearl earrings are just as versatile as the ring and be worn every day as well as for special occasions. For pink lovers, this pretty design also comes adorned with pink pearls.
If you haven’t found the perfect gift from our picks, check out our full selection of stunning pearl jewelry.
This Valentine’s Day, Have a Heart
January 29, 2009 by Yelena Jenkins · 1 Comment
One of the most famous symbols of Valentine’s Day love is the heart. The universally-revered shape is practically synonymous with the holiday, so much so that nearly every Valentine’s Day gift is heart-shaped. From red heart-shaped candy boxes and helium heart balloons to heart-printed flower vases and jewelry, it’s all been done in the name of love.
Heart-shaped jewelry in particular has been a hugely popular Valentine’s Day gift; especially the omnipresent heart-shaped pendant. Though this traditional style is loved by many, Apples of Gold carries many fresh and novel heart-shaped jewelry designs to choose from. We’ve highlighted some of our favorite finds below to make Valentine’s Day shopping easier this year. From tri-color gold heart rings to a chic twist on the heart shaped pendant, the stunning selection is sure to warm your Valentine’s heart.
Heart-Shaped Jewelry, Served With a Twist
Tri-Color Gold and Diamond Heart Ring
Rings are a great jewelry choice for Valentine’s Day, and this stunner is no exception. The 14k white gold ring features three staggered hearts in white, yellow and rose gold. As mentioned last week, a touch of rose gold is the perfect way to bring pink into your Valentine’s Day gift.
Naturally Cultured South Sea Pearl Heart Shaped Ring
This gorgeous white gold ring (pictured at top) features a humongous South Sea pearl surrounded by an abstract heart of diamonds. The huge 9 mm size of this lustrous pearl makes a statement like only a cocktail ring can, and the halo of diamonds add a finishing sparkle to the style. This ring is the ideal gift for a stylish Valentine who sticks with traditional looks – think Jackio O., or J. Crew’s effortless East Coast chic.
Diamond, White and Rose Gold Heart Pendant
The typical diamond-encrusted heart pendant gets a sassy makeover with a tiny rose gold heart mounted on the side. The off-kilter heart gives the pendant a modern, fun vibe that will look beautifully delicate hanging from your Valentine’s neck. This pendant is also an adorable Valentine’s gift choice for moms-to-be and moms with a young child; the large heart can represent mom while the mini rose gold heart is symbolic of the baby.
For more unique Valentine’s Day jewelry gift inspirations, make sure to check out our tips on how to Think Pink for Vday as well as an article on the ultimate Valentine’s Day chocolates – Chocolate Pearls.
Diamond Heart Pendants
January 22, 2009 by Afshin Yaghtin · Leave a Comment
Below are our best selling diamond heart pendants, ranging in price from $145 for our Dual Two-Tone Gold Heart Pendant to $675 for the 0.92 Carat Blue Diamond Heart Pendant.
Three hearts are set next to each other inside of a larger heart in polished 14k white gold. The center heart is set with diamonds for a total of 0.30 carats of diamonds in high quality H-I Color, SI1-SI2 clarity. One of our most popular diamond heart pendants! Heart measures 13/16″ (20mm) x 11/16″ (18mm). Also comes with a matching 14k white gold singapore chain in your choice of 16″ – 20″.
Cross and Diamond Heart Pendant
Another immensely popular and stylish diamond heart pendant. A singularly beautiful white gold cross is set inside of a heart pendant in 14k white gold. Bottom-half of heart is set with 0.08 carats of high quality, H-I Color, SI1-SI2 Clarity diamonds. Pendant measures 5/8″ (16mm) x 9/16″ (15mm) and comes with your choice of 16″ – 20″ 14k white gold singapore chain.
Looking for something even more unique? Try Apples of Gold’s 0.92 Carat Blue Diamond Heart Pendant. Set with 37 breathtaking blue diamonds in 14k white gold. Even the bale/hoop is set with blue diamonds for a sparkling array of blue! Comes with 18″ singapore chain, also in 14k white gold.
Set with 0.25 Carats of graduating Diamonds our, diamond journey heart pendant is angled to one side for a fashionable, trendy look and set in polished 10k white gold. Comes with a matching white gold chain in 18″.
Dual Two-Tone Diamond Heart Pendant
A graceful mixture of 14k yellow gold and white gold. Elegant and beautiful, our two-tone dual diamond heart pendant is the perfect gift for the holidays! Pick one up for a very affordable Price. Set with 0.02 Carats of white diamonds and illusion-settings. Measures 3/4″ (19mm) x 13/16″ (20mm) and comes with a matching 14k yellow gold singapore chain in your choice of 16″-20″.
Personalized Engraveable Diamond Heart Pendant
Get your heart pendant customized this year for the ultimate in personalized gifts! Available in your choice of 10k or 14k, yellow or white gold, synthetic diamond or natural diamond, or even a genuine colored gemstone or birthstone! Finally, add the personal of adding a name to the front and/or back of your pendant! The options are limitless!
Black Diamond Journey Heart Pendant
Go alternative with this year’s hottest fashion statement: black diamonds! Set with a full 1.00 Carat of black diamonds in 10k white gold. The journey motif is a classic that will never fade and will rank up there with other hot trend setters such as three stone rings and circle pendants. Also comes with a matching white gold chain in 18″ (other sizes available by request).
Love Diamond Pendant in 14K Yellow Gold
“All you need is Love”–14k gold has established itself as the ultimate classic and trendsetter in fine jewelry. Express your love to your significant other with this beautiful, stylish 14k yellow gold love heart pendant. Set with 3 diamonds and illusion setting, heart pendant measures 3/4″ x 5/8″ and comes with your choice of 16″ – 20″ 14k gold singapore chain.
A diamond-laced heart hangs from a traditional gold heart pendant in this modestly priced diamond pendant in 10k gold. Set with 0.20 carats of diamonds (1/5 Carat), this diamond pendant cannot be beat in value and is rich in symbolism and elegance. Comes with an 18″ matching gold chain (other lengths available by request).
Three Stone Diamond Heart Pendant
Three stone diamond pendants are full of beauty and symoblism. 3 represents perfection, the Holy Trinity, aesthetic and integral beauty, and much more. Add 0.24 Carats of diamonds and 14k white gold to create a striking pendant and a perfect gift. Measures 13/16″ x 9/16″ in size. Comes with a matching 14k white gold singapore chain in your choice of 16″ – 20″.
Apples of Gold offers many high quality, diamond heart necklaces and diamond pendants.
Think Pink for Valentine’s Day
January 22, 2009 by Yelena Jenkins · Leave a Comment
Ah, pink; the color of warmth, love, friendship and flirtation. Cheeks turn pink at the sight of a crush, and lips color ruby after a heady kiss. With so many pleasant love-related connotations, it’s no wonder pink is such a popular color for Valentine’s Day. If red has been your go-to Vday gift color in years past, consider a change to red’s flirtier, hip little sister, pink. Even jewelry comes in alluring shades of pink that range from soft pink pearls to super stylish, rock star rose gold. Play up the flirt factor this year by thinking pink – gift your Valentine with a gorgeous piece of jewelry that takes her breath away and brings out the pink in her cheeks.
A Rose By Any Other Name
Rose gold, forgotten for a while, is making a big comeback on the fashion and jewelry scene. The gorgeous pink tone of rose gold comes from the addition of copper, and can range from light pink to a fiery orange-red. White and yellow gold makes great gifts for other occasions, but Valentine’s Day calls for something special and seasonal, something…pink. Even the name is ideal for Valentine’s Day – instead of giving her a dozen roses that are marked up on February 14th, give her a piece of rose gold jewelry that will grow in value – and never wilt.
Two Pieces of Rose Gold jewelry We Love for Valentine’s Day:
1. Personalized Handwritten Rose Gold Ring (at top)
This ring makes the ultimate personalized Valentine’s Day gift. The solid 14k rose gold ring can be inscribed with your own personal message in your own handwriting. It’s like giving her a permanent love note that she will always carry around with her; the ring is such a unique, romantic gesture.
2. Rose Gold and Diamond Butterfly Ring
The abstract butterfly covered in tiny diamonds will let her know that she makes your heart flutter (hey, you can even write this in a card – we won’t hold the cheese factor against you). The soft pink hue on this gorgeous ring will look beautiful on any skin tone, and the feminine shape makes it a great girly gift. Besides, what girl can resist pink and diamonds?
The Pearl of Your Heart
Traditional ladies will love receiving pearls for Valentine’s Day. Pearls are the oldest precious gem and have been worn throughout the centuries by everyone from Cleopatra to Queen Elizabeth. A beautiful set of pink pearls makes an ideal gift for the queen in your life. They’re classic enough to be worn forever, but have just enough pop to set them apart from white pearls.
Two Pink Pearl Gifts We Love for Valentine’s Day:
1. Natural Freshwater Pink Pearl Stud Earrings
Even the most sensible woman will love a pair of pearl stud earrings. They are unfussy enough to be worn daily, go with everything from jeans to a ball gown, and match everything in a wardrobe. Plus, they are practically a steal at under $100. Gifting doesn’t get easier than these beauties.
2. Diamond, Natural Freshwater Pink Pearl and White Gold Dangle Earrings
Make no mistake – these earrings are serious jewelry. Two large pale pink pearl earrings dangle from 14k white gold fishhook posts for an elegant twist on the pearl earring. The pink pearls are placed in a white gold setting covered in tiny diamonds that sparkle as the earrings move. Simply gorgeous.
If your Valentine hates pink, relax! Apples of Gold has a plethora of beautiful Valentine’s Day options, including rare chocolate pearls (ladies love chocolate; even the inedible kind) and pretty gemstone earrings. Whatever you buy her she will love, just because it’s something special that came from you. And if she doesn’t, well, there’s plenty of other fish in the sea… we kid, we kid!
