Throughout history, women’s jewellery has been a symbol of power, wealth, protection, and self-expression. From ancient amulets to modern heirlooms, these beloved pieces have played a pivotal role in shaping the stories of women. To celebrate this year's International Women’s Day, we’re exploring how jewels offer a sense of independence and identity for women around the world.
Seen Through History
For millennia, women have turned to precious gems not only for beauty but for protection. During the Middle Ages, women wore charms called Eaglestones, a type of egg shaped clay ironstone, encased in metal, and worn around their neck for safety during childbirth. Indeed, bearing a child was one of the main causes of death among women before modern medicine, and so these amulets were no doubt crucial for reducing anxiety.
Ancient Eaglestone Pendant, Welcome Collection
Jewellery also marked noble status, offering women a way to assert their position in society. In Renaissance Europe, for example, ornate pearl necklaces were reserved for women of high rank. One of the world’s most famous pearls, La Peregrina, has a history that spans almost 500 years, and was worn by Spanish monarchs and more recently Elizabeth Taylor. These adornments were more than displays of beauty — they were powerful markers of identity and privilege in a world where women's voices were often overlooked.
Elizabeth Taylor wearing La Peregrina pearl in Anne of a Thousand Days. Screenshot Image
Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend
Remember Marilyn Monroe’s iconic performance in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes? There may be more to the famous lyrics ‘diamonds are a girl’s best friend’.
At times when financial independence for women was limited, jewellery became a vital source of disposable wealth. Precious gems and gold could be discreetly carried, traded, or sold, offering a sense of security in uncertain times. In many cultures, women received precious gems as part of their dowries or wedding gifts, offering them a form of financial autonomy within patriarchal systems.
During the Victorian era, it was common for women to inherit or receive jewellery that they could later sell if they found themselves in need. Jewellery became a silent yet powerful form of agency: an asset that women could claim as their own in a society where money and property were often out of reach.
It’s quite telling that during the 20th century, songs referencing these sparkling stones often made them out to be far more reliable than men. Such is the case with Marilyn Monroe ('a kiss may be grand but it won't pay the rental'), but also Dame Shirley Bassey’s 1971 hit Diamonds Are Forever ('diamonds never lie to me, for when love's gone, they carry on'), soundtrack for the James Bond film of the same name.
A Reflection of Individuality
Beyond wealth and status, jewellery has always been a means of self-expression. From the suffragettes wearing purple, green, and white gemstones to signal their cause, to the Art Deco era's bold, geometric designs that reflected a newfound sense of freedom, women have long used jewels to tell their own stories. Even as far back as 16th-century England, rings and necklaces were used as a way to affirm a woman's individuality, so there are never forgotten. Anne Boleyn’s iconic ‘B’ necklace, for example, is still being redesigned and sold to this day.
A Suffragette brooch set with amethyst, pearl, and peridot. GlobalGemology
Today, jewellery remains one of the most intimate forms of self-expression. Whether through minimalist designs or vibrant statement pieces, every piece a woman chooses speaks to her personality, her values, and her journey.
Modern Women, Modern Choices
In the 21st century, the relationship between women and jewellery has evolved dramatically. No longer confined to gifts or heirlooms, women are increasingly buying fine jewels for themselves, marking milestones, celebrating achievements, or simply expressing their own style.
Bespoke emerald earrings, 77 Diamonds
Modern female consumers play an active role in shaping the jewellery world, with many taking part in designing bespoke pieces or choosing engagement rings themselves. Our recent research has shown that 38% of partners, mostly women, actually want a hand in choosing their engagement ring to ensure it matches their preferences and style.
As women continue to redefine the rules of ownership, the power of these adornments endures, connecting past and present in a celebration of beauty, strength, and self-determination. This International Women's Day, we honour the stories that jewellery has helped women tell.
