The ABC's of Horse Jewelry

By Barb Jackson

Horse jewelry, jewelry with a horse design, has fascinated people throughout the history of man. From the earliest of times, families and individuals would incorporate the image of a horse onto their most treasured possessions, which often included jewelry. Made from precious metals and gems such as gold, silver and diamonds, they were passed down from generation to generation...becoming valuable family keepsakes.

Where did this practice come from? This desire to put a "mere animal" into beautiful jewelry that will be owned and loved and yes, shown to others? When we think of the horse it's not hard to fathom. The horse is an animal with a number of desirable traits...traits that we all hope to possess in our own character. Some of these traits are:

1) Strength - Horses have been asked to perform many of man's most menial tasks. Consider the workhorses like the Clydesdale for example. They are powerful enough to pull the famous Budweiser wagons, and plow the fields as well. A piece of jewelry that incorporates the horse design will exude the strength and power of this animal. This type of gift is very popular amongst men.

2) Grace - When one thinks of grace, the horse often comes to mind. When you watch them gallop along a beautiful meadow you cannot help but think of grace. Every muscle and tissue of their being seems focused on pulling this magnificent animal across the field. Beautifully streamlined, these creatures are the heart's desire of many a young girl. A special marriage is made when you add diamonds into the mix. A diamond, known for it's elegance and class, is one that marries perfectly with equestrian design.

3) Nobility - What a noble creature the horse is. During the Middle Ages, knights decked out in full battle armor rode horses with the symbol of the horse incorporated into their shields. And how did the peasants get around? They walked along side their knights no horse, no armor, and no shield let alone one with a horse design. Let's fast forward to our world today. People of high-ranking are often honored with horse jewelry, particularly gold brooches and medallions. Rings with the design of a horse's head are often awarded to others as a sign of "higher social class" or "nobility".

What is the main reason a person would wear horse jewelry? They love their horse, that's the main reason. They want to show this love of the animal off to others. Sure they have to work or study or shop or play, but this doesn't mean they can't show the love of their favorite animal off to others while they do.

In future articles we will be detailing some of the finer examples of horse jewelry, and we hope you will join us. If you find that you "just can't wait" for these items, please visit us on our blog. - 29871

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