Economic and Social Value of Ancient Jewellery

Intertwined are the economic and social aspects of ancient jewellery. Jewellery has a deeper value than being just a mere adornment or ornament during the medieval times. The market prices of jewellery changed over time depending on certain factors such as market demand, availability of materials, and the trend in fashion. It often symbolizes one’s position in the society and in life and this usually intrigues a lot of people at present time, hence the numerous studies and researches focused on this topic.

Up until the end of the 13th century, the sapphire was the most appraised stone. After which, it became the ruby who had the greatest value in terms of price and demand. During the latter part of the Middle Ages, the diamond held the title of being the most valuable and expensiveof the gems except in Spain and Portugal where the emerald holds this title mainly because of their fondness to this gemstone. Pearls on the other hand were popular and sold generally by weight. Venice was the greatest market for pearls in Europe; they were imported from the East.

Precious and semiprecious stones as well as cameos were stored by merchants and noblemen—those with little jewellery—as reserves of valuables. However, those that belong to the noble and princely circles kept these stones either to use in jewellery and plates or to give away as gifts. During weddings, New Year, and other occasions, precious stones are handed as presents. Even those that came from broken pieces were stored. These stones and pearls were kept safe by mounting them in rings, fixing them in wax, or keeping them loose in a bag or cloth.

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