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I love antiques and antique jewelry that make me smile. The Georgians and Victorians had a marvelous sense of humor and this is often reflected in fabulous animal jewelry. They were especially in awe of elephants.  This did not stop them from hunting down and decimating these beautiful animals, but we will leave the gruesome side out of this discussion and chat about marvelous elephant jewelry instead.
Amongst other animals, the elephant is an all-time favorite. Clearly imbued with symbolism:  good luck, wisdom and knowledge, sensitivity, strength - both mental and physical. The list goes on and on and within many and varied cultures, elephants are highly venerated for their qualities. 

Think about a circus and the first image that comes to mind is the elephant. A while back, I had an incredibly impressive ring that was associated with the Barnum Bailey Circus. For a circus fan, what could be more exciting? 

Elephants, the bearers of kings and queens are the symbols of royalty and power. 

                   #4930                                                                Statement gold bangle from India about 100 years ago. 

One of the most magnificent bracelets I've been privileged to own is this antique Indian, heavy gold openwork bracelet with elephant head terminals. The openwork tubular cylindrical basement is floral. When I saw it in a 'palace of jewels' in Delhi, I knew that whatever the cost, I had to have it. Wear this bangle and you are sending a very clear message of style, beauty, luxury and power to the world. 

#7506  English, Victorian bangle.  
Based on the same design idea as the Indian elephant bangle above, is a refined, Victorian, English version. The band is thinner and the elephants smaller and finer. Less boisterous and less of a huge statement, but a subtler version and statement in its own right. This elephant bangle is luxurious and very wearable. 

Yet another bracelet with an elephant theme comes from Italy and was made by a luxury Italian jewelry house from Milan. For the cognoscenti, Milan is home to the ultimate in chick design (move over Paris). Wow!

#7426  

#7219  
                                                                                                                                                 In case you are wondering whether elephant jewelry only comes in bangles and bracelets, here is a fabulous elephant brooch. Mother elephant and baby elephant. So sweet.  Made in the UK. 

Take a look at these elephants and note that their trunks are curled up. In case you didn't know, curled up trunks are regarded as good luck elephants. Always look for the upturned trunk. Avoid elephants with trunks turned down. 

These examples of elephant jewelry, each from a different place and a different era have one thing in common: timeless and wearable, each is a jewel to be proud of.
Antiques and art from Paintings to pincushions - We can’t leave out the fact that elephants are much loved, admired, desired and enjoyed. They are a central part in the ultra luxury of Mughal India and most importantly, the most beloved of Hindu gods is Ganesh, the elephant-headed remover of obstacles, god of new beginnings, wisdom, and intellect, often invoked first in prayers.

#4938   Indian miniature painting with elephants.

#5744 miniature silver carousel with animals.
This is part of a series of blog posts all about animals in antique jewelry. 

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