Devon-based jewellers Irene & Jenny celebrate Valentine's Day

Devon-based mother-and-daughter duo Amalia Brightley-Gillott and Anita Brightley-Hodges founded jewellery brand Irene & Jenny, transforming old jewellery into new modern pieces keeping memories precious. As Valentine's Day approaches, we are reminded not only of romantic love but of all the love stories that shape our lives. From the tender devotion of a grandmother to the passionate promise of an engagement, jewellery has always been a symbol of love's endurance.

Throughout history, jewellery has played an essential role in marking life's most significant moments. Engagements and weddings have long been associated with rings, a tradition dating back to ancient Egypt, where circles symbolised eternity. The custom of diamond engagement rings became popular in the 1940s, spurred by the De Beers campaign declaring, 'A diamond is forever'.

Marriage itself is often symbolised by the exchange of wedding bands, a practice dating back to the Romans. The left-hand ring finger was believed to contain the "vena amoris" or "vein of love," directly connecting to the heart.

Beyond weddings, jewellery has celebrated other major life events. Birthstone jewellery, for example, dates back to biblical times, with each stone believed to bring specific qualities and protection to the wearer. Mothers often receive jewellery to mark the birth of a child, such as engraved lockets or charm bracelets representing each child.

Anniversaries are another special occasion marked with jewellery, with traditions such as gold for a 50th anniversary and diamonds for the 60th. Each milestone tells a love story, with jewellery serving as a tangible reminder of the journey shared.

Valentine's Day is often seen as a celebration of couples, but at its heart, it is about love in all its forms Perhaps this Valentine's Day, instead of searching for something new, we turn to something old - n heirloom piece that reminds us of the deep and lasting connections in our lives. Or maybe, we choose to reimagine a treasured piece, giving it a new form that reflects the present while honouring the past. This Valentine's Day, let us celebrate the jewellery that has witnessed engagements, marriages, births, and milestones, keeping love's story alive through the ages.

https://ireneandjenny.com