Of all the world's animals, it is solely humanity which looks to beautify itself for purposes other than increasing procreation. As long ago as the Neanderthal age, jewelry played an integral part in society; in fact Jewelry objects have now been found in pre-historic Africa dating back seventy five thousand years.

Throughout history jewelry has been used to adorn and beautify, but it has also had another, spiritual role. Jewelry has long been used as an amulet endowing the wearer with magical powers. To understand why jewelry has been so venerated through man's histury,it is important to be aware of mankind’s long held belief that precious stones could closely impact on the fortunes of the bearer. Jewelry was made with certain principles in mind; namely to conform to and fortify beliefs. This was particularly the case as religions began to develop powerful bonds in human society

In fact, throughout history jewelry was closely linked to religion and had an influential role to play in religious rites Similarly, began the notion that benefits could be gleaned from their wear and consequently there developed an intricate network of fictitious powers being attributed to them. Intriguingly, many of the legends surrounding the benefits of certain stones were generally held globally, not just in one part of the world. Gold and gemstones universal to many parts of the world were thought to defer similar qualities in their respective locations.

The gemstones of ancient times, though considered "precious" then, are not in the "precious stone" class of modern times.Until recently in the jewelry industry, only four gemstones were considered "precious", Ruby, Emerald, Diamond and Sapphire. However, earlier in history Diamonds were virtually unknown as color was considered the all important variable. In today's market, conversely, "precious" and "semi precious" stones as categories have been largely retired and Gemstones are revered for their rarity and intrinsic beauty instead. Tanzanite jewelry, for example is often found side by side with diamond jewelry in a jeweler’s window.

In modern times, jewelry has advanced from its traditional beautifucation and spiritual role to a more pragmatic one. Jewels have become used as a symbol of position in society and of wealth . When assuming this role, they became an investment of marketable economic value. Indeed, the concept of jewelry as easily liquidated and portable wealth became an important part of European politics as far back as the middle ages. Crown jewels were often used during the religious wars to guarantee foreign loans. .

The three basic roles that jewelry has played, the ornament, the conveyor of magic and the symbol of power and affluence, have remained true throughout history and are as applicable today as they were thousands of years ago. Jewelry is and will remain an important element of human society and emotion.