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Military Jewelry Remains Popular Through the Decades
Through the decades and various conflicts, servicemen and women have enjoyed showing their pride for country and duty through military jewelry. It has also served as a keepsake for the sweetheart who stayed behind. Today, military jewelry, old and new, is collected by those who appreciate its sentiment or those who are awaiting the return of a loved one from abroad.
Vintage Military Jewelry
When it comes to collecting, one of the more popular forms of military jewelry was called "sweetheart jewelry," created during World War II. These charms, jewelry necklaces and pendants were fashioned from silver, sterling silver, gold filled and occasionally solid gold. However, to conserve precious metals for the war effort, pieces were also created from wood, plastic, celluloid, and non-precious metals. Also quite popular were "In Service" pins, which featured a star for each family member that was serving in active duty. On occasion, collectors may find two- or three-star pins which are considered quite rare.
These sentimental tokens of simpler times are seen clearly in the symbolism of the charms, such as a Navy locket pendant meant to hold a lock of hair and photo of the beloved serviceman; a mother of pearl heart; a ship's wheel; or a sterling silver U.S. Army cap charm. Jewelry necklaces featured a wide range of pendants, often signifying which branch of the military the serviceman was enlisted.
Contemporary Military Jewelry
No matter what division a serviceman or woman has served, or where their service has taken them, military jewelry is an ideal way to commemorate that service. It also provides a great deal of pride for family members or friends who wish to wear a charm bracelet or jewelry necklace in honor of their loved one.
When seeking a special piece to honor a loved one's service to their country, it's a good idea to keep in mind several tips before making a purchase. Within the four branches of the military there are various types of jewelry available so it's important to choose the right piece.
Army
Army pendants and charms for jewelry necklaces are designed to signify service in the overall Army or there are pieces designed to represent service in specific regiments and brigades so it's a good idea to make sure of those details before purchasing an item. More popular Army pendants and charms include the 101st Airborne and 10th Mountain Division in silver or gold. Gold tends to be the preferred finish for this type of jewelry. Examples include a dog tag charm bearing the Army Star or a more intricate piece in white gold representing the U.S. Army logo.
Navy
Navy jewelry is quite similar to the other branches of the military but can also have pieces dedicated to specific service on a ship or a particular accomplishment. Pendants and charms include the esteemed scuba diver and Recon items in silver or gold. Charms include a gold U.S. Navy anchor or a gold mariner cross with eagle.
Air Force
Jewelry commemorating service in the Air Force can also be for service in general or designed for duties in specific units. There are also charms for service on a particular air craft. You may find that Air Force jewelry tends to focus on the vehicle involved in the service, as opposed to the Army which highlights service in a division, brigade or unit. So it's important to know to which type of vehicle the loved one is connected. One of the most resplendent of the Air Force jewelry is Air Force Diamond wings in gold, which makes a treasured gift for any airman or woman.
Marines
Last, but certainly not least, is the Marine Corp. Because the Marines and Navy are both from the same branch of the military, the pendants and charms are quite similar. Their differentiation lies in that the Marine Corps has items dedicated to specific accomplishments. Those familiar with the Marine's activity in the Corps may be able to find a piece to represent that specific experience. For instance, you might choose an iconic "Bulldog" charm or a Saint Christopher charm, patron saint of protection, to wear for good luck on a jewelry necklace.
About the Author Lewis Jewelers is proud to carry the full line of Pandora Jewelry. Pandora charms, Pandora bracelets and Pandora beads are only a part of the collection. For more information, Lewis Jewelers, 2000 West Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48103, 877-88-LEWIS or visit the website.
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