The earliest gold jewellery dates from around 6,000 years ago.
Whenever man has found gold he has fashioned it into a jewel, worn it as a symbol of status or power, or given gold jewellery as a public declaration or intimate celebration of his love to a woman who has then worn it, loved it and handed it down through countless generations.
Here is a little inspiration from the past, from precious objects which transcend time; from a handful of today’s designer-goldsmiths who define their art. Together with practical information about the caratage, colour and care of gold you can choose your next gold jewellery with confidence, knowing that you carry on the traditions of centuries in a piece that may be treasured for centuries to come.
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Gold Inspirations
This issue of Gold Inspirations revels in the intimacy of a treasured gold jewel. Amongst its many extraordinary qualities, gold possesses an exceptional intimacy. Immutable and everlasting, personal and protective, gold is the perfect statement of individual creative expression which is shared by both the artist-goldsmith and the wearer.
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Historic pieces
"Gold: Power and Allure" the summer exhibition, sponsored by World Gold Council, is the most comprehensive and ambitious exhibition every staged at Goldsmiths' Hall.
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These 10 extraordinary objects selected from the exhibition tell a story of passion and power, fortunes lost and gained, and the special place this metal plays not only in our national, but also our personal histories. -
Great Designers
As gold once again becomes the shining hero of today's fine jewellery world, and as more and more high-profile contemporary collections focus on the glories of gold, its vitality and versatility, its colour, texture, preciousness and meanings, we showcase the next selection of designers and goldsmiths, from around the globe.
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Caratage
Gold in its purest refined state is described as 24 carat. Rich, lustrous and malleable. Other metals can be combined with pure gold to change its characteristics.
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Colour
The gold of King Midas and Agamemnon was yellow. But today, gold comes in an overwhelming array of colours.
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Care
Despite its flexibility, gold is also renowned for its indestructibility. With its unique resistance to the ravages of time, given the proper care, gold will retain its beauty and colour for generations to come.