Meaningful Pursuits | Feb. 2023
MEANINGFUL PURSUITS
By Theresa DeMaria
Valentine’s Day as we know it has its origins in the Roman festival of Lupercalia, a ritual designed to help promote fertility and health while cleansing away evil spirits. The legend goes that the emperor of Rome was having trouble getting men to enlist in his armies, so he banned weddings and engagements. A Christian priest, Valentine, performed these ceremonies in secret. When the emperor discovered this, he ordered Valentine beheaded.
So, what led to this brutal act becoming the festival we know and love today, and what role does jewelry play as one of the most popular Valentine’s Day gifts? For that, you’ll need to fast-forward to a more modern time.
Come what may, the diamond band is a jewel box necessity that warrants wearing on repeat. With a wide range of styles, there really is something for everyone. The diamond bands pictured here are as versatile and enduring as a simple sparkling band—but far more interesting. Their designs are distinctive and memorable, standing out in a stack (or solo) and happily blending.
Designed to smoothly rest against your neckline, this richly textured necklace is designed with Pave diamonds set in 18-karat-gold metalwork along with a sapphire studded charm. The perfect gift for that someone special or a lovely treat for oneself.
Amid roses (that eventually wilt) and chocolate (that eventually gets eaten), jewelry as a Valentine’s Day gift became an instant hit. Well into modern times, jewelers and artisans focus on gemstones like diamonds and rubies as a way to echo sentiments of deep and everlasting love.
At Barbara Parker Fine Jewelry, each piece is truly unique and exceptionally crafted to perfectly capture your sentiments in a design that is sure to take your partner’s breath away.
