Silver medallions, sometimes encrusted with precious stones - they mean much more than the cost of these gizmos. They allow you to capture the memory of the past or of a loved one. At the same time, medallions are a stylish element of the wardrobe, especially relevant today.
The history of the medallion
All jewelry is pretty personal, but the locket is the most personal of all. Many medallions are passed down from generation to generation and are considered family heirlooms. Many of them contain amazing stories, some romantic, historical, and some very tragic. Such decorations are far from being only symbols of cordial affection. This was the case when they were worn as a sign of membership in a secret society or devotion to a murdered monarch in politically divided Britain, after the execution of the British King Charles I in 1649.
Meaning of the locket
Most medallions open to reveal miniature photo frames. Most often, a photo of a loved one is placed there.person, child or parent. Occasionally, ashes or a strand of hair are placed inside the opening silver medallion. This allows people to keep the memory of the dead, a sense of a kind of physical closeness. Of course, the overwhelming number of stories contained in individual medallions is not significant for world history as a whole. However, this does not diminish their importance for each individual, which is why they are still so popular.
Medieval traditions
Necklaces with silver medallions gained popularity in the Middle Ages, they were often used as amulets. It was believed that they could ward off evil spirits. But in most cases, small pendants were more practical. Dry medicinal herbs and flowers were inserted into them. This made it possible to protect oneself a little from infection and microbes, which at that time were everywhere. In addition, the aroma muffled the stink of garbage and sewers running right through the city. For these purposes, a piece of perfumed fabric was removed inside. Other medallions from this time contained a tiny painted portrait. To be sure, these medallions even contained poison from time to time.
Male interpretation
Chains with large medallions everywhere adorned the royal clothes and outfits of the courtiers, dukes and duchesses. I must say that at that time men's silver medallions were much more common than women's.
Although the word "medallion" now resembles a more feminine pendant on a chain,the function of the medallion can (and should) be considered in more general terms. When worn by monarchs, they could be grand and bejeweled. Medallions and pendants mean more than other jewelry or souvenirs because they tell an extraordinary story. Soldiers in the trenches during the First World War carried simple medallions with them to war, but for them they were filled with precious meaning. Many still have medallions with grainy photographs sealed under old glass.
Choosing the perfect locket for your partner
Pendants are precious, intended exclusively for going out into society, but often they are intended for every day. In this case, the metal should be selected the same as in other everyday jewelry. Wearing gold and silver jewelry at the same time is considered bad manners.
Silver suits girls of a cold color type: winter or spring. Usually, such women have blue, gray or green eyes, ashy or light shade of hair. Her veins will be visible under the skin and cast blue.
Girls who love chic, beautiful clothes, heels and expensive restaurants should choose jewelry with inlaid stones. Simple options without unnecessary decorations will suit girls who are more homely and do not like frills.
Zodiac signs engraved on one side of the silver medallion are popular. Such a decoration will appeal to people who attach great importance to this, for example, believers in horoscopes.
Relevance of medallions today
Classic silver medallions with a new twist are an essential element of the modern woman's wardrobe. Graceful, modest, but at the same time stylish, they allow a woman to capture meaningful personal stories. Today, pendants are created with the right combination of technology and exquisite craftsmanship. Medallions are that wonderful decoration that keeps the most important moments of life, ideas and inspiration. Regardless of age, women choose medallions because they offer a modern yet timeless sensibility combined with their inherent mystery, intrigue and unrivaled exclusivity. Like watches, medallions have become a new part of the basic wardrobe.
Wardrobe detail
They will be an appropriate addition to a casual, evening or business look. The range of extraordinary styles allows women's silver medallions to highlight even the most beautiful designer dresses. They are also suitable for loose boho clothing.
Thus, a modern woman can choose several medallions for different occasions. It can be sleek and polished, classic, sophisticated, or breathtaking in a unique design.
For men, silver medallions can also be a very original detail in the image. Do not think that jewelry is appropriate only for women. In addition, the male version can be much more minimalistic, demonstrating the restraint and taste of the owner.
Vintage Fashion
For a fewIn recent years, vintage jewelry has become a trend. Vintage silver medallions have a special appeal, their style is very different from modern products. They seem to have an exceptional zest, which is difficult to find in mass or newfangled products. Today's women also wear these timeless pieces with photographs of special significance, and the new medallions are designed with an eye to the past to capture the essence and intrigue of these timeless classics.
However, sometimes it can be difficult to find really vintage jewelry or they are overpriced. Therefore, today many jewelry companies have begun to produce collections created in the old way. For example, Annina Vogel, a vintage jewelry factory, started making vintage keychain necklaces in 2007. All of a sudden, these unique designs were in demand and "worn by everyone from Helena Bonham Carter to Kate Moss." After Annina Vogel signed a contract with Vogue to shoot in their jewelry.
Medallions in art
For centuries, an opening pendant with a portrait, a lock of hair or a tiny love letter has been a classic accessory. Medallions can also be part of a bracelet, ring or necklace.
Medallions are a fundamental part of the plot in classical literature. Some of the most passionate couples express stormy and eternal love with it. For example, Heathcliff in Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë removes the hair of her rival - Edgar - from Catherine's medallion necklace, after her death,replacing them with your own.
The pendant also plays a significant role in the development of the plot of the film "Titanic", the tragic and true story of which won the hearts of millions. These necklaces represented longing and love, loss and longing.
