The Renaissance & The 17th - 18th Centuries

The 15th and 16th Centuries marked the dispersion of the somber Middle Ages, and the rise of the Italian 'Renaissance', meaning 'Rebirth', expressing for the first time the values of the modern world. Artists and artisans of this period found their inspiration in the revival of ancient Greece and Rome, and jewelry became once again an integral part of dress. Solemn religious subjects were gradually replaced by classical and naturalistic themes and Filigree and  enameled  jewelry  combined

with faceted gemstones were for the first time united in sculptured pendants, brooches, necklaces and chains.