Coin Jewelry can be divided into two major categories: whole coins and cut coins. This article will seek to give the origin of and details about both types.

Whole coin jewelry has most likely been around since coins were first invented. It is thought that Egyptians would decorate their soldiers with medals similar to coins of their day. And, as long as soldiers and civilians have been traveling, the coins of other nations have been a great souvenir to take back home. Travelers would have coins finished whole or with added engravings to be used as bear tooth necklace and rings.

The other type of coin jewelry is commonly referred to as cut coins. Coin cutting was probably first seen in the 1600's when men would pierce and cut coins to impress their lovers. Since that time cutting coins has become a serious form of craftsmanship that is currently producing some truly unique pieces of jewelry. When cutting coins, craftsman start with a whole coin and then pierce the coin with small holes. A very fine tooth jeweler's saw is then inserted into these holes and worked until the main figure of the coin is released. This allows the central figure of the coin to be featured and seen by itself. The coins can then be left in its base metal or covered in gold or silver or, often times, both. The two-tone finish allows the intricacies of both the coin and the craftsmanship to be shown. From here the coin can be taken to it final form as a pendant, earrings, tie tacks, money clips or rings.

Whether it is whole or cut, coin jewelry is becoming quite popular. Many people purchase them to be used as a beautiful accessory, as a show of national pride or as a collection item specifically fit to their hobby or interests. To be worn especially as an accessory, there are lovely butterfly, delicate flowers, and bold suns, all worn as pendants or earrings. One of the most popular pieces is a stunning coin from Barbados, the ten dollar coin with features Neptune with a trident in his hand. When people want to purchase something to show their national pride, the Irish and Polish coins are popular and, of course, any of the American coins, with the new state quarters being a unique way to show state pride. Finally, there are a huge number of coins for those with particular interests or hobbies. Whether it is cats or dogs, panda bears or any type of sport, there is a coin that will match most any interest. These are just a few of the vast number of coins that are available in cut coin jewelry.

Saying You Care When Giving Jewelry

People have different ways of saying "I love you," to their beloved. Although words will suffice in most cases, there are more creative ways by which one can say the same sentiment.

Love can be shown in different ways. Some people go for the simple things like walking with their loved ones on a sunlit park. Others just sit and watch the sunset or the sunrise together. To most, it is as simple as spending as much time as they can with the person they love. Another sure-fire way of saying "I care" to your beloved is giving him or her gifts. These can be flowers, or clothes, or perfumes. They can also be expensive jewelry.

Engagement Ring

For couples who are newly-engaged, it is common practice to give the girl a diamond engagement ring. It is the preferred symbol of a man's lasting affection for his special woman. Diamond engagement rings cost a pretty penny. As such, when a man buys one and gives it to a woman, it is a sure indication that the man has serious and pure intentions.

Engagement rings are also rife with tradition and superstition. They are worn at the ring finger because that finger has a vein that is directly connected to the heart. It is, furthermore, worn at the left hand because it is believed that this "vein of love" is shorter (and is thus much closer) to the heart than the corresponding vein on the right ring finger. The engagement ring (and later on, the wedding ring), since it is circular, is supposed to protect this vein of love from evil spirits or is supposed to signify eternal love.

Sentimental Lockets, Bracelets and Rings

For any other occasion, a gold link necklace with a gold locket pendant that bears the couple's picture will make a perfect romantic gift. The locket is understandably heart-shaped. This could be given during a couple's anniversary, or the lady's birthday. In serious relationships, the man tries to go the extra mile every time and saves up for a small token that he could give the woman just to show her his love.

Of course, in these modern times, it is not uncommon to find a woman returning the favor to his man. They could buy a bracelet together and have their names engraved on it. Each of them can have identical bracelets. They can also buy matching rings. For instance, there are matching rings in gold, silver or platinum that forms a single heart when pieced together.

Men and women have a wide range of choices when it comes to jewelry that they can give to their beloved. The final choice should always depend on the preferences and taste of the intended recipient. If you have very limited means, then you should not despair. The jewelry you give to your loved one need not be astronomically expensive. However, it should still be something valuable, something which you have obviously saved and scrimped for and something that you have obviously given a lot of thought and effort to procure. The thought will always be better appreciated if the jewelry comes with it.