A Small World Of Museum-Quality Jewels In New York City

For jewelry enthusiasts, it's always a treat to find out that a museum in your area is host to an exhibit of exceptional pieces from a renowned house, a particular style and/or time frame The recent Manhattan shows-TEFAF New York, which ran from Oct 27-31 at the Park Avenue Armory, and The New York Jewelry & Watch Show, which took place from Oct 26-29 at the Manhattan Pavilion-provided a rich and diverse selection of jewelry from the medieval to vintage '70s in museum-quality period jewelry.

Unlike museum exhibits, these shows offer novice and consummate collectors, students and all interested in the medium the ability to touch, try on and potentially purchase the pieces on display: a jewelry enthusiast's dream! Rings have been one of the most prominent jewels throughout history and represent a wide range of moments and meanings Once you start recognizing the time periods and realize the historical significance as well as artistry, you might want to own a ring for every finger and perhaps from varied centuries From Western Europe, this ring features the opulence and ornate goldsmithing of the period which was distinguished by colorful gemstones, intricate details on the top, shank and underside of the rings, enameling and a whole lot of symbolism.

Speaking of which, this ring sits next to a Renaissance gimmel ring of clasped hands. . Source