The uniting of two people in love has historically been represented by entwined hands. This elegant Art Deco stickpin by Cartier abounds with symbols of love and devotion. It is topped with a ring of sapphires surrounding an image of clasped hands in chased yellow gold. A single rose-cut diamond is set on one of the fingers of the left hand indicating an engagement. The blue of the sapphires is associated with fidelity while the diamonds represent eternal love.

With its deep shades of red symbolizing desire, ruby is the gemstone of love and romance. Legend says that the ruby isn’t even a stone, but rather hardened fire with the power to ignite passion. This elegant Edwardian ring in the form of a stylized target with cabochon ruby center calls to mind Cupid finding his mark and is an ideal choice for an engagement or anniversary ring.

From the first powder compacts designed during the reign of Louis XIV to the rise of cosmetics culture in the Art Deco era, the idea of makeup-as-jewelry has a long and fashionable history. While always a provocative gesture, the public application of makeup was fully embraced, even flaunted, by 20th century women as a sophisticated expression of allure. Embellished compacts in precious metals and gemstones by the great master jewelers took pride of place in evening bags and on restaurant tables, echoing the finest jewelry of the time. This elegant compact and lipstick set from Boucheron is crafted of 18k yellow gold and decorated with an engraved foliate design highlighted by cabochon sapphires and finished with diamond accented push closures.

The dove has long been considered a symbol of peace and love. Known to mate for life, doves depicted in pairs have come to signify commitment and fidelity. In the Middle Ages it was believed that doves chose their mates on Valentine’s Day, forever linking the birds to the holiday This elegant Cartier diamond bracelet from their “Colombe de la Paix” collection is designed as a continuous circle of doves in flight.