Why Do We Celebrate Valentines Day?

It’s February the 14th! The most romantic day of the year. Every February 14th, people across the world exchange chocolates, roses and meaningful gifts with their loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. It is considered to the best day to express your love and care for your special one or even express your feelings to the one you love. But do they really know the history behind this day? It is considered to the best day to express your love for your significant other – or to your family and friends! While many of us lap up Valentines Day, a number of us don’t actually know why…

We’ve trawled through the history books to try and discover the real reasons – and what we found casts a very different light on the holiday.

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According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, there were at least three early Christian saints by the name ‘Valentine’, so the St Valentine that inspired the holiday may have been more than one man.

The saint officially recognised by the Roman Catholic Church was a real person who died around AD 270, but an account from 1400s describes Valentine as a priest who was beheaded by Emperor Claudius II for helping Christian couples wed. The emperor had banned marriage as he thought single men made better soldiers. Valentine felt this was unfair so he celebrated marriages in secret. When the emperor found out he was thrown in jail and sentenced to death.

Valentine’s Day is an old tradition thought to have originated from a Roman Festival known as ‘Lupercalia’. It was held on February 15 as a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman God of agriculture. During the celebration boys would draw names of girls and the pair would be partners during the festival – a  match that often led to marriage.

The festival survived the initial rise of Christianity but was outlawed at the end of the 5th century when Pope Gelasius declared February 14 St Valentine’s Day.

But when did it become a tradition to celebrate love on this day? Well, St Valentine did help marry couples in secret, which is arguably very romantic and a celebration of love in itself. He is the patron saint of beekeepers and epilepsy among other things… like the plague, fainting and travelling (not so romantic). That doesn’t stop people calling on his help for those romantically involved. He’s now also the patron saint of engaged couples and happy marriages.

However,  it’s thought that Chaucer, The Canterbury Tales writer, may have actually been behind ‘creating’ the tradition of celebrating Valentine’s Day. The medieval English poet apparently took quite a few liberties with history, dropping his poetic characters into real-life historical events leaving readers wondering if that’s what really happened.

There is no official actual record of Valentine’s Day before Chaucer’s poem in 1375 in which he linked the tradition of courtly love to the St Valentine’s feast day.  The poem refers to February 14 as the day of ‘birds coming together to find a mate’…

“For this was sent on Seynt Valentyne’s day / Whan every foul cometh ther to choose his mate,” he wrote.

The tradition didn’t seem to exist until after his poem. So he may have actually “invented” Valentine’s Day as we now know it. Happy Valentines Day everyone!

A VALENTINE’S GIFT GUIDE FOR HIM

Valentine’s Day is a day to spoil your significant other by showering them with gifts. Be it jewellery, flowers or just good old-fashioned romance – it’s a time to make them feel super special and loved.

Jewellery should be something that is thoroughly thought through with an edge of romance. Don’t leave your shopping to the last minute and consider your Valentine’s Day issues solved with our selection of men’s jewellery.

 

Thomas Sabo Wide Rose Love Cuff Bangle

Thomas Sabo bangle made with 18ct rose gold plated sterling silver – get it engraved for an extra special touch!

Thomas Sabo Ethno White Love Bridge Bracelet

Another from Sabo, but in a totally different style. This bracelet is made with sterling silver, white agate, simulated turquoise and obsidian.

 

Cufflinks made with sterling silver

The classic gift, every man needs a good pair of cufflinks. This sterling silver pair are simple, but elegant and classy.

Thomas Sabo Black Onyx Necklace

This simple mens necklace is made with black onyx beads. Again from Thomas Sabo, it makes for an ideal Valentines gift.

 

What womens jewellery trends will feature in 2017

While most fashion trends come and go, you can usually find that some jewellery is simply timeless. With this said, there are trends within the jewellery world as well. Here we have a few looks that are predicted to be popular in the coming year…

Charm Bracelets

Charm bracelets are so popular because they are so personable and individual. You can make them totally your own and personalise them in whichever way you want. This year will see the rise in popularity across ranges like Thomas Sabo Charms, as people start to see how perfect they are as a gift…

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Layered Bracelets

Why stick to one bracelet or bangle? This year layering your bracelet and bangles will be a very popular look. Try out a few different metals and styles to really make the look stand out…

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Pretty pearls

The precious pearl has been branching out from its traditional, regal image over the past few seasons, featuring in more modern pieces like chockers and cuff bracelets. However, this year will see a return to its roots. The classic pearl necklace will be very popular in 2017, like this beautiful Jersey Pearl Oval Pearl example.

 

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Chunky Necklaces

From pretty pendants to chunky chains, it’s all about making an impact with your neckwear this year. We love styles like this Thomas Sabo gold plated ‘leaf tendril of the fairy twines’ necklace set with dazzling white cubic zirconias.

 

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Floral Rings

Brands like Clogau Gold have boosted this trend. Pretty floral inspired band rings look delicate and pretty and will be very popular in the coming year. We love this elegant example from them.

 

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Why you should buy your man a watch for Valentines Day

It can be difficult to know what to buy your significant other for Valentine’s Day. You want to get him something personal and special, that is also unique and that you haven’t got him before. A holiday like this calls for something that shows how much you really care about him, you listen to him, and you think about him all the time.

So what better was to signify this than with a watch? Let’s face it: A nice watch is not usually something any man can just buy himself. The price is just too high to justify such an extravagant present to himself!

So, this Valentine’s Day, buy him a luxury watch that he can treasure forever. Here are a few watches that will suit both your budget and your man’s style…

While the brand faithfully perpetuates the watchmaking heritage of its legendary founder, it expresses a huge passion for horology in both present and future tenses.

 

Tag Heuer Connected

If you’re looking to go modern, with a classic edge, try the Tag Heuer Connected. The TAG Heuer Connected Smart Watch, an alliance between the Swiss watchmaking and the Silicon Valley technologies Intel Inside and Android Wear, is a luxury watch that benefits from over 150 years of Swiss expertise, savoir-faire and heritage as cultivated by TAG Heuer.

 

Perrelet

Perrelet watches are classic. They really are the masters of their trade, bringing innovate, unique and stand out designs that are instantly recognisable. You can read more about their brand in our last blog, here.

 

U-Boat

If you want something that is stand out, U-Boat watches have a number of distinguished features when compared to other timepieces. Their use of materials is hugely selective and each watch is hand-crafted with advanced and unique practice.

 

Storm

British brand Storm lead the way with statement designs, so if your man’s a little bit out there, Storm if the brand for you. With a multitude of cutting edge designs across both casual and contemporary styles, storm push boundaries through its unique fashion watches.

 

Raymond Weil

This watch the brand has a such wide variety of designs, that even the most picky of watch enthusiast will be able find a design that suits them. One of the last independent brands in the Swiss watch industry, Raymond Weil Genève are a family company founded in 1976 and has become one of the biggest name in the industry since.

 

Hugo Boss

Hugo Boss has maintained a reputation for their cutting-edge style and masculine overtones for years. If you’re looking for contemporary design aesthetics, that boast fine attention to detail and a quality build a go for a Hugo.

5 Ladies Rings to keep in mind this Valentines Day…

Valentines Day is fast approaching and will be with us before we know it. So, in the coming weeks, we’ll be taking a closer look at the kind of gifts we think women all around the UK will be swooning overcome February 14th. This week’s blog will focus in on rings. How, don’t panic, we don’t necessarily mean “the” ring! Whether you are married, engaged, or just dating, a ring is a lovely and thoughtful gift for your valentine. Rings are so versatile – they can come in so many different styles, shapes and price ranges. So, here we have a few of our fabulous ranges to give you a little bit of inspiration!

Georg Jensen Gold Magic Pearl Ring

This alluring pearl ring exudes the relaxed elegance of the independent woman. The sleek, classy design is a signature from Georg Jensen, and is surely to be a winner.

Gucci White Gold Stardust Diamond Ring

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Instantly recognisable as Gucci, this white gold stardust Ring is a real favourite. The delicate diamond accents and intricate design will look beautiful of any finger.

Links of London Love Note Silver And White Sapphire

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This sterling silver heart-shaped ring is truly unique. The three ring design set with sparkling white sapphires, your valentine will be weak at the knees when you present her with this!

Emporio Armani Ladies Deco Pearl Silver Ring

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Another modern and unique design, this ladies’ Emporio Armani sterling silver ring has a real eye-catching design. The crystal set pyramid creates a pleasing balance with the beautiful, glowing pearl.

Finding the Perfect Ladies Watch

Finding the right watch is never really an easy task. With so many styles and brands out there, there sometimes can be too much choice! That’s were we come in…

Here we have 5 ladies watches that cover the majority of styles, materials and budgets! Don’t worry if these are exactly what you’re looking for though, here at Peter Jackson we have a huge range of ladies watches covering all styles and all price ranges…

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This Michael Kors Kempton Watch is a real eye catcher. If you’re looking for something that’s a bit different, this is the watch for you. The leopard print watch face compliment the gold dial, case and tan strap beautifully.

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Another watch from Michael Kors, this rose gold number is a hugely popular design. Rose Gold have seen a huge spike in popularity over the last few years, offering something different to the classic yellow or white golds we are used to. This design includes an intricate design across the face and a diamond embedded case, which all add to it’s instant wow factor!

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This simple and elegant watch is bang on trend right now. The pastel grey and rose rose detail compliment each other perfectly, bring together this contemporary, clean design. We’re big fans!

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We’re big fans of this rose-tone Accurist watch, chiefly because of its plated stainless steel mesh bracelet. This look is very popular among women’s watches, because of its clean, elegant finish. This watch is also available in a non-plated stainless steel finish, which is equally popular.

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So, we don’t just love this because of it’s bargain price tag, promise! This watch oozes a certain art deco elegance that we can’t get enough of. The emerald green leather strap is sure to turn a few eyes green with it’s stand-out style.

Make sure you explore our huge range of luxury women’s watches! We have all the key brands including brands such as Michael Kors, Gucci, and Links of London – and many more!

GEORG JENSEN : Our favourite pieces

Here at Peter Jackson, we have a beautiful range of Georg Jensen pieces that always prove popular with all of our customers.

Georg Jensen has over 100 years experience in the jewellery making business! After establishing himself in Copenhagen, the founder Georg Jensen utilised his skills in crafting his stunning pieces of ladies jewellery. The quality and beauty of the pieces that he produced soon saw the brand and company expand to retail outlets in New York, London and Paris.With an elegant metallic feel, Georg Jensen brings simple class to the jewellery market. His watches feature simple designs favouring a minimalist face over anything too technical.

Here are a few examples of the beautiful pieces in the Georg Jensen ranges…

Georg Jensen sterling silver ring with a blue aquamarine stone.

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Georg Jensen 18ct White gold, yellow gold and rose gold and white diamond studs.

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Georg Jensen Aria pendant, made with sterling silver and black onyx.

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 Georg Jensen black leather bracelet with a 18ct white gold and white diamond pendant.

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Georg Jensen 18ct Gold necklace set with diamonds.

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The Georg Jensen brand is based on the values of integrity authenticity and clean Danish design. As you can see, the pieces in his collections are simple and elegant, without being plain or ‘boring’. The perfectly crafted pieces in Georg Jensen all stick to the brands core values, resonating the Danish way of life.

Gift Guide : Thomas Sabo Charms

Welcome to our latest blog and gift guide. This week we’re focusing on Thomas Sabo Charms. This is because we think they make such perfect gift! If you’re buying a gift for someone that you know owns a charm bracelet, a charm is always a thoughtful gift.

Branded with the tagline “Time for a difference”, Thomas Sabo is a company with a different look on what style we should be wearing around our wrists. Founded in 1984, Thomas Sabo started off in jewellery, and then expanded outwards into the production of watches inspired by their current collections in 2009. Thomas Sabo Charms are elegant, personable and made to a beautiful standard.

Their wide ranges mean that no matter what the style, hobbies or interests, you can find a charm that will suit them perfectly! Here at Peter Jackson, we have a huge range of Thomas Sabo Jewellery and Charms. Below we’ve lists a few of our favourites…

Alphabet Charms…

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These Thomas Sabo Charms are the ideal Christmas gift. The charms are made with sterling silver and set with cubic zirconia and look beautiful on any charm bracelet.

Music Note Charm

Buying a gift some someone super musical, or just someone who really loves music? Look no futher! We love this dainty  Thomas Sabo Charm, again made in sterling silver ang set with cubic zirconia.

Thomas Sabo Feather Charm

We know you’ll love this Thomas Sabo Sterling silver feather charm just as much as we do. Pretty, delicate and whimsical, we think this is a truly perfect Christmas gift.

Thomas Sabo Horseshoe Charm 

Give someone a little bit of luck with this adorable sterling silver horseshoe charm, set with white cubic zirconia. An equally adorable and thoughtful gift!

 

We’re sure you’ll agree that these are all beautiful and make for ideal Christmas presents! If the person you’re gifting hasn’t already got a charm bracelet, you can also buy them a Thomas Sabo Charm Bracelet from Peter Jackson, to make them feel extra special!

Christmas Shopping Guide : Childrens Gifts

Buying gifts for children is never a simple task. While you want to get them something that they will love, but also that they can cherish and that will last a long time. Jewellery is a great option, particularly for young girls. They will love feeling that little bit more grown up, and also will be able to cherish the piece for years to come. Here at Peter Jackson, we’ve a number of lovely gifts for children. Here are a few ideas to give you a bit of inspiration…

Links of London Sweetie Sterling Silver Thumbprint Childs Bracelet with Heart Charm

An iconic Links of London bracelet, only slightly smaller! The internal circumference is 130mm, perfect for a little wrist! Featuring the ever popular sterling silver thumbprint heart charm, this is an ideal keepsake to mark a birth, christening, birthday or first Christmas!

D for diamond Daisy Locket

This cute pendant makes a beautiful Christmas gift! In sterling silver, it features a diamond set locket with a yellow enamel at the centre of the daisy design. The locket opens with space to store pictures or keepsakes inside. D for diamond Mouse Bangle

We love this adorable children’s bangle. Made with sterling silver, the bangle features a genuine diamond on the front with an engraved mouse as well as the words ‘hickory dickory dock’ written on the back. A stunning Christmas gift!
Thomas Sabo Teddy Bear Studs

How cute are these little teddy bear studs?! We really love this diddy Thomas Sabo earrings that are made with a blackened sterling silver, and we’re sure the little person that receives them will as well!

Our favourite Clogau pieces

With every piece of jewellery starting it’s journey in the St. David’s Gold Mine in BontdduIn, Clogau has become a nationally-renowned brand. Sold only in the world’s finest stores, each piece of Clogau jewellery is beautifully handcrafted, allowing the skill and dedication of their craftsman to come through in every intricate detail.

The winners of numerous prestigious jewellery awards, Clogau is famous for supplying the gold used in a number of the Wedding rings worn by the Royal Family – making Welsh gold some of the most sought-after gold in the world!

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We are currently running the above offer in store – giving you the chance to receive this stunning Clogau Gold Snowflake pendant when you spend £249 or more in-store on Clogau Jewellery. An offer we’re sure you’ll agree is not to be missed!

So we thought we would use this opportunity to show you some of our personal favourite Clogau pieces. Although it’s difficult to decide which we love the most because they’re all so beautiful…

Clogau 18ct gold Debutante Bangle

 

 

 

With distinctive and beautiful rose gold detailing, this bangle is unmistakably Royal Clogau®. The exquisite Debutante bangle features two stunning 15pt diamonds surrounded by an intricate filigree design.The decadence of 3.24ct of diamonds enhances the special look of the Debutante bangle, and this stylish design has been expertly handcrafted using some of the finest 18ct Welsh gold.

Clogau Gold Royal Crown Diamond Ring

The exquisite 1911 coronation crown of Queen Mary, set with over 2,000 diamonds, contained three unique diamonds that could be removed and worn separately as magnificent pieces of jewellery. This lavish collection is inspired by one of the most unquestionably grand crowns in Royal British history. This sublime white and rose gold ring contains rare Welsh gold and is set with perfect diamonds.

Clogau Gold Tree of Life Sapphire Glass Inner Charm Pendant

The iconic Tree of Life® collection symbolises the relationship of all life on Earth. The Tree of Life® sapphire glass inner charm pendant expresses the infinite power and beautiful continuity of nature. A pretty combination of berries, leaves and vines represent new life forms that intertwine and evolve from the old, creating ever more beautiful designs with an elegant and organic style.