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Jewellery: A History of Innovation

From a simple shell strung on a thread to a brilliant-cut diamond in a platinum setting, the history of jewellery is a story of human ingenuity. The urge to adorn ourselves is ancient, with early jewellery being made from natural materials like bone and shells.

The discovery of metalworking was the first major breakthrough, allowing for more complex designs. The ancient Egyptians, for example, mastered techniques like granulation and filigree, creating intricate pieces that still captivate us today. The Romans popularized the use of a wide variety of gemstones, bringing vibrant colour to their pieces.

Centuries later, the invention of gem cutting revolutionized the industry. The brilliant-cut diamond, with its many facets, was created to maximize a stone’s sparkle. This innovation transformed jewellery, focusing its appeal on brilliance and light. The Industrial Revolution then made jewellery more accessible to the masses through mass production.

Today, modern technologies like 3D printing and computer-aided design (CAD) have opened up a new world of possibilities. They allow jewellers to create intricate, custom designs with a precision and speed that was unimaginable in the past. From ancient techniques to cutting-edge tech, jewellery’s evolution is a continuous testament to human creativity.