After the fall of the Roman Empire, jewelry continued to be the focal point of civilizations. Medieval jewelry stood out in terms of quality, surpassing the Byzantine ones: rings, brooches, bracelets, earrings, brooches, necklaces set in multiple rings and reliquaries; they were perhaps the most used pieces along with religious motifs.
In the 8th century weapons were adorned in the style of jewels. The grave goods in the graves were significant; people buried with gold brooches, silver earrings, pearls, precious stones, combs and buckles.
In the Middle Ages, «Celtic jewelry» was embodied in continuous pattern patterns; while «Merovingian sketches» were known for distinctive figures. They were two notable groups for the excellence in their work; just as the Anglo-Saxon and Visigothic styles were imposed.
The «cloisonné» or «alveolate enamel» technique was widely used and consisted of welding gold or silver wires to the jewel or metal object, adhering them in thin ribbons. The terminations were visible when the piece was finished, serving as a separation between numerous divisions of enamel or inlays that were often made in different colors.
The Byzantine Empire, unlike the Romans and together with the Franks and Celts; they preferred to use the gold leaf that consisted of very fine sheets of the beaten of this beautiful mineral. Solid gold was not included in his priorities, putting all the emphasis on gems and precious stones; and like its predecessors, this jewelry was worn by high-ranking and wealthy ladies. However, the men were limited to the signatory rings.
Likewise, at that time the innumerable commercial caravans coming from the East arrived in Europe with a large amount of gold and silver, precious and semi-precious stones; selling them to be used in the production of the jewelry trade and in the elaboration of religious and royal jewelry. Most of the crowns were inlaid with cabochon garnets, which were fully polished gems in a rounded shape.
As early as the 14th century, the color and size of gemstones established their value; and the different procedures in ovens at high temperatures, allowed to offer a very unique color to the designs. Likewise, they applied various methods implementing impressions that have prevailed over time.
Also in that century, the limited use of symbolism with animal figures was highlighted; in which representation predominated through forms associated with Christianity. In this way, Italy gradually became a major player in Mediterranean trade; making millionaire negotiations in areas like Florence and Venice.
The Middle Ages set a precedent in the world of jewelry, combining Roman art with Byzantine culture. The goldsmith introduced a fashion of impressive changes in a stage of civilization, based on beliefs expanded by history.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to incorporate jewelry inspired by that mysterious era into your personal style. Garments of incredible beauty, with the cultural memory of mythical traditions; transformed into magnificent accessories among modernity.