The most beautiful silver rings in history have been designed with spectacular gemstones. From diamonds to onyx, these gems are used by jewelry designers to create unique multi stone rings. Each gemstone has its own history and has developed its own symbolic meaning over time. Most of these gems achieved popularity during Victorian times in filigree Victorian style rings.
Amethyst Silver Rings
Amethysts were popular during Greek times as a protection against drunkenness. As a matter of fact goblets were actually made from this stone. Because these stones are purple they are popular stone of royalty and are featured in the British Crown Jewels. For Christians this stone is considered to promote celibacy. As a symbol of piety amethyst silver rings are popular adornment for the clergy. Amethysts are also said to cure headaches and insomnia as well as hold amazing curative powers. Because of their healing powers filigree amethyst silver rings were quite popular during Victorian times.
Garnet Silver Rings
Garnets were used in silver rings and other jewelry as far back as 3000 BC. They were quite popular as garnet silver rings in the 18th and 19th centuries and especially popular as filigree garnet silver rings during Victorian times. The garnet was said to cure depression, prevent bad dreams and cure liver ailments. The Greeks believed that garnet protected children from drowning and from poisons. Garnets were also said to have charm like qualities to maintain health and protect against disease.
Topaz Silver Rings
The ancient Greeks thought topaz would increase strength and cause invisibility while the Romans believed this gem would improve eyesight. In medieval Europe topaz was thought to have healing powers especially against mental illnesses. Blue topaz silver rings were worn throughout history as a means to help heal and increase a person's energy. In Victorian times filigree blue topaz rings were quite popular and were thought to bring the wearer good "karma".
Onyx Silver Rings
Onyx means "claw" or "nail" in Greece. While the goddess Venus was sleeping, Cupid split his fingernail with an arrow and the nail clippings fell on the ground. They were turned into Onyx by the gods. During Victorian times filigree Onyx silver rings were worn to prevent unhappiness and maintain love in a relationship. They also boost self-confidence and promote health. Onyx silver rings are still quite popular in today's society as the black and silver theme is a common trend in all walks of life.
Turquoise Silver Rings
Turquoise has been around since 5000 BC when it was found in the bracelet of an Egyptian queen. North American Indians mined turquoise to use for trade. In Europe turquoise silver rings became especially popular during the Renaissance. Turquoise was believed to have curative powers to stop stomach ailments, cure stings from scorpions and snakes and prevent blindness. Worn in turquoise silver rings it is still considered to bring good luck today.
Sapphire Silver Rings
According to folklore the tablets containing the Ten Commandments were made out of sapphire. Ancient cultures believe sapphires can heal and calm and individual. Filigree sapphire silver rings were worn during Victorian times as a means of sustaining health along with their beauty.
Citrine Silver Rings
Citrine was named after the French term for lemon, citrin. This gemstone has been around for thousands of years. The Romans used in as one of their main gems in jewelry. During the 19th century citrine was very popular in filigree art deco style rings. The art deco period resulted in incredible filigree citrine silver rings that were quite popular with the movie stars of the day including Joan Crawford and Greta Garbo. Citrine is called the "Merchant Stone" and is said to increase sales in a retail establishment. Citrine also increases self-esteem and helps the wearer think clearly. Citrine is also said to promote joy and love.
There are many other unique multi stone rings and single stone silver rings that have also been made popular thanks to the Victorian's love of jewelry. Filigree peridot silver rings are quite lovely with their unique shade of green. While cubic zirconia is a new artificial gem, filigree cubic zirconia rings closely resemble diamond rings that were especially favored during the 18th century. And of course the dainty and lovely cameo/flip silver rings are still popular today.