Elrequisitium

Tag: garnets

  • Ancient Scandinavia and Gemstones

    Ancient Scandinavia and Gemstones

    Scandinavia,home of the mythical gods Thor and Odin, is often overlooked but rich in history and beauty. It has magnificent natural scenery and a rich cultural heritage. Despite its importance, it is often overshadowed by famous civilizations such as the Incas and Mesopotamia.

    Gemstones have long fascinated civilizations around the world, serving as symbols of strength, beauty and spirituality. In ancient Scandinavia, these gemstones had significant cultural and practical significance, woven into the tapestry of Norse mythology and everyday life.

    Types of Gemstones

    The ancient Scandinavians created a variety of gemstones, each with their own unique properties and meanings. Here we are going to tell you a few.

    Amber 

    A fossilized tree resin, amber was prized for its golden glow, symbolizing warmth, protection and sunlight.

    Garnet

    This deep red gem was associated with protection, strength and courage, often associated with the god Odin.

    Quartz

    Clear or colored quartz was used in jewelry and ceremonial objects, representing clarity, strength, and spiritual connection.

    Fossilized Agate 

    This banded stone was used in jewelry and decorative objects, representing a connection to the earth and the cycles of nature.

    Jade

    A symbol of good luck, prosperity and fertility, jade was highly valued, reflecting the importance of agriculture and fertility in Scandinavian society.

    Use in jewelry and patterns

    Gemstones were expertly crafted into a variety of jewelry forms, such as brooches, pendants and armlets, as well as ritual objects such as ceremonial cups and amulets. They believed that their presence at burial sites ensured protection and guidance in the afterlife.

    The legacy of gemstones in Scandinavia

    The importance of gemstones in ancient Scandinavia influences modern culture, influencing jewelry design, art and spiritual practices. The mystery surrounding these precious stones is a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage.

    I hope you find this article informative and interesting! If you have any further request let me know. I would love to create it.

  • Why are gemstones costly articles?

    Why are gemstones costly articles?

    For a gemstone beauty alone is insufficient, rarity and durability are equally essential properties.

    Eg:- Spharlite is a stone whose brilliance approaches that of diamond but is far too soft to be of equal value

    Fine garnets are far more pleasing than bad rubies. But the rubies still hold value[elaborate more on garnets and rubies]

    Additionally many gems are said to have cultural and historical significance further increasing their value.

    An Italian superstition holds that sapphires are used in amulets which are worn as a protection from eye problems and melancholy and what more even Mary ‘The queen of Scots’ wore sapphires in her pendant to protect from sore eyes

    The labor intensive processes of mining and refinery adds to their overall value.

    ‘Digging grounds to find

    Shiny things to be loved

    Shouting ‘hard to do’

    Sweating, never mind’