The art of jewelry-making originated in prehistoric times when primitive people used objects from the animal world—such as horn, shell, and feathers—to adorn themselves. Cave paintings and carvings show figures decorated with bracelets, necklaces, and headdresses. Since then many forms of jewelry have evolved, so that there is hardly a part of the body for which an ornamental form has not been created. Arms and legs have been festooned variously with bracelets, rings, shoe buckles, and ankle bracelets; the head with tiaras, earrings, and combs; and the chest and neck with broaches, necklaces, belts, and breastplates. Traditionally jewelry has been a sign of social rank and a symbol, often of luck or good fortune.
Probably the most widely used and highly prized material for jewelry making is gold. Its malleability, value, and color make it ideal for a wide range of uses. Gold sheets can be embossed, engraved, pressed, or pierced into decorative forms, and gold wire can be used to join jewels together or to make chains. The other most commonly used components of jewelry are precious and semiprecious stones. Diamonds have traditionally been the most highly prized of such gems, varying in color from yellow to bluish white and sometimes reaching enormous size. The brilliant cut, which with its myriad facets best shows the characteristic sparkle of a diamond, was invented in the 17th century. Judging by the descriptions above, this ring is the archetype of jewelry combining the most prized materials together. The natural materials are allowed to shine in all their luminous glory. This ring is truly a classic that would be treasured as such wherever, or whenever, people choose to adorn themselves.