The provided sources offer limited direct information regarding Clogau as a gemstone itself, focusing instead on the brand’s jewelry featuring various gemstones, particularly those associated with springtime and birthstones. While Clogau is primarily known as a jewellery brand utilizing Welsh gold, the sources highlight its incorporation of other gemstones like citrine, labradorite, and mother-of-pearl into designs symbolizing renewal and celebration. This article will explore the gemstones featured in Clogau jewellery as presented in the provided materials, their historical and symbolic significance, and how they are utilized in the brand’s collections. It will also touch upon general ruby care, as that gemstone is specifically discussed in relation to birthstones and special occasions.
Historical and Symbolic Associations
The sources connect specific gemstones to significant events and beliefs. Rubies, prominently featured in discussions of July birthstones and engagements, carry a rich history of symbolism. They represent love, prosperity, and vitality, making them a meaningful gift for those born in July. Their deep red hue is associated with the intensity of summer. Historically, rubies have been chosen for engagement rings due to their durability and captivating colour, symbolizing enduring love and a commitment that withstands the test of time. The sources emphasize the ruby’s high ranking on the Mohs scale of hardness, reinforcing its suitability for everyday wear and its potential to become a family heirloom.
Other gemstones featured in Clogau jewellery also possess strong symbolic meaning. Butterflies, represented by labradorite pieces, symbolize transformation and are linked to Easter’s themes of rebirth. Lilies, embodied in pendants featuring mother-of-pearl, represent resurrection and purity, further connecting the jewellery to springtime celebrations. Daffodils, featured in stacking rings with citrine, symbolize rebirth and new beginnings, aligning with the spirit of spring. These associations demonstrate a deliberate effort to imbue the jewellery with deeper meaning beyond aesthetic appeal.
Gemological Properties of Featured Gemstones
While Clogau itself is a gold alloy, the gemstones incorporated into its jewellery exhibit distinct gemological properties.
Ruby: The sources mention ruby’s hardness, stating it ranks high on the Mohs scale, ensuring durability. However, specific details regarding its chemical composition, refractive index, or clarity are not provided.
Citrine: Featured in the Eternal Daffodil Stacking Ring, citrine is presented as a gemstone symbolizing rebirth. No specific gemological properties are detailed.
Labradorite: Used in the Super Kula Butterfly Bracelet, labradorite is described as a gemstone with a captivating appearance. The sources do not provide details on its chemical composition or other properties.
Mother-of-Pearl: Found in the Lady Snowdon Pendant, mother-of-pearl is presented as a shimmering material combined with diamonds. Its organic origin and iridescent quality are implied, but no specific gemological data is given.
Peridot: The sources provide more detail on peridot, noting its volcanic origins and occasional presence in meteorites. It is described as being found in a single colour – green – with shades varying based on iron content, ranging from brownish-green to yellowish-green to pure green. The sources do not provide details on its chemical composition or hardness.
The following table summarizes the limited gemological information available from the sources:
| Gemstone | Colour Range | Notable Properties |
|---|---|---|
| Ruby | Red | High hardness (Mohs scale) |
| Citrine | Not specified | Symbolizes rebirth |
| Labradorite | Not specified | Captivating appearance |
| Mother-of-Pearl | Iridescent | Shimmering, organic origin |
| Peridot | Brownish-green to pure green | Volcanic origin, sometimes found in meteorites |
Mining Locations and Origins
The sources provide some information regarding the origins of specific gemstones. Peridot, for example, was historically mined on the island of Zabargad (now St Johns Island) in South Egypt for over 3,500 years. Today, it is also found in Norway, Pakistan, Brazil, Australia, Myanmar (Burma), China, the USA (Arizona), and Hawaii. The sources do not provide details on the mining locations of rubies, citrine, labradorite, or mother-of-pearl.
Clogau itself is associated with Welsh gold, though the sources do not detail the specific mining locations within Wales. The brand’s connection to Welsh gold is a key part of its identity, representing heritage and quality.
Care and Maintenance
The sources offer specific advice on caring for ruby jewellery. Regular cleaning with a soft brush and hand soap is recommended, avoiding harsh chemicals. Ruby pieces should be stored separately to prevent scratches, and removed before engaging in activities that could cause damage. Periodic professional cleaning and inspection are also advised to maintain brilliance and address any potential repairs. The sources do not provide specific care instructions for other gemstones featured in Clogau jewellery, but the general principle of protecting gemstones from scratches and harsh chemicals likely applies.
Clogau Jewellery and Special Occasions
The sources highlight the suitability of Clogau jewellery, and the gemstones it features, for various special occasions. Rubies are particularly well-suited for birthdays (as the July birthstone), engagements, and anniversaries. The brand’s designs incorporating butterflies, lilies, and daffodils are presented as ideal gifts for Easter and springtime celebrations. The sources emphasize the high quality and ethical sourcing of the gemstones used in Deacons Jewellers’ (and by extension, Clogau’s) collections, assuring customers of both beauty and responsible practices.
The Brand and its History
Coe & Co Jewellers, mentioned in one of the sources, has been a stockist of branded jewellery and creator of fine jewellery in Lincolnshire for over 40 years. The company emphasizes its role in customers’ life events, such as engagements, weddings, and birthdays, highlighting the emotional significance of jewellery. While not directly about Clogau, this context reinforces the importance of jewellery as a marker of significant life moments.
Conclusion
The provided sources, while limited in their direct focus on Clogau as a gemstone, offer valuable insights into the symbolism and significance of the gemstones featured in the brand’s jewellery. Rubies, peridot, citrine, labradorite, and mother-of-pearl each carry unique historical and cultural associations, enhancing the meaning of the pieces they adorn. The emphasis on ethical sourcing and quality craftsmanship further elevates the value of Clogau jewellery, positioning it as a meaningful and lasting investment. The sources underscore the enduring appeal of gemstones as symbols of love, prosperity, rebirth, and celebration, making them cherished gifts for all occasions.