Jewelry for the family

Over time and different ages jewelry has undergone many changes, both in their designs as well as the way they have been perceived. When large parts of the world were ruled by kings and queens, emperors and empresses, then jewelry was used as a signifier of status and power.So those who can afford it, get jewelry specially designed just for themselves by reputed designers. For regular folks who are neither very rich, nor very poor, jewelry is associated with a number of perceptions and emotions.
There are families who treasure jewelry and pass it on through generations. The more powerful and wealthy used to wear bigger and more expensive pieces of jewelry. The tradition has not changed much that way.
However in the present times, the concept of family jewels has somewhat changed, as in they are treated more like mementos of special occasions, rather than as investments. For example, wedding rings are family jewels which are treasured by their owners. In fact jewelry gifts made to mark important milestones of a person's life are highly treasured. Pendants that mark the birth of the first child, necklaces and rings to mark milestone wedding anniversaries are some such jewelry gifts. Since family jewels are expected to last a lifetime, they should be chosen with care. Again care should be taken to ensure that the design is timeless.