The History And Symbolism Of Gargoyles Unique Wedding Rings By 3 Rexes Jewelry

.925 sterling silver gargoyle ring by 3 Rexes Jewelry
When you think of the beauty of the Middle-Ages, so many things come to mind. I think of the amazing architecture, and amazing creativity of the stone and mason work that were such a beautiful accent in the castles and churches. How everything was unique, one of a kind. One such item that has intrigued me for many years was the use of Gargoyles. With a little research, I think I have found some answers to the inquiry. 

Gargoyles came into gothic architecture in the early 13th century and are defined as a waterspout, projecting from an upper part of a building or a roof gutter to throw water clear of walls or foundations. The origins of the word 'gargoyle' are derived from the old French word 'gargouille' meaning throat. This describes the gurgling sound of the rushing water through the open mouth of the Gargoyle. In Architectural terms only the creature serving as actual water spout is called a Gargoyle, otherwise is it known as a Grotesque. A Grotesque may function solely as decoration.

blackened brass gargoyle ring by 3 Rexes Jewelry

 Gargoyles were usually carved in the form of a grotesque face, or frightening creature perched upon a rooftop. Gargoyles might depict such forms as ugly human faces, animals, Mythical creatures, imaginary creatures and they may also be a combination of several different forms. The materials used to create the earliest Gargoyles were made of wood or even terracotta, but early Medieval Gothic were made of stone. These frightening, grotesque sculptures are most often associated with Medieval churches and Cathedrals. Gargoyles were used to graphically depict pure evil. They were often so hideous that one could only imagine them in their worst nightmares. The ideas of these sculptures were often taken from mythology, folklore and images from Pagan religions. They were used to teach that evil is everywhere, yet the church was always a sanctuary against the demons and temptations.

dark brass gargoyle pendant by 3 Rexes Jewelry

dark brass gargoyle ring by 3 Rexes Jewelry

Gargoyles were also used to great effect in English Gothic Castles. Gargoyles are frightening and intimidating sculptures and therefore embraced by English lords to cause fear and intimidation on the general population of their kingdoms. The purpose of the gargoyle was as “guardians” of the building. It was used to repel evil. With its wide open mouth was symbolic of devouring giants and intruders meaning harm to the castle.

With the thousands upon thousands of gargoyles that are still looking down upon us, the amazing designs were created from only imagination. Each stone carver and mason, could conjure any creature they could imagine. But one thing rings true, gargoyles were meant to protect and secure us. Keep us away from evil, away from harm. Gargoyles: (guest blogger: Kathie Hayes) .925 sterling silver gargoyle ring by 3 Rexes Jewelry

“Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind. And therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.”

 William Shakespeare, A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Helpful Hints For Planning Your Gothic Wedding

(guest blogger; Kathie Hayes)

Majestic Medieval Ring

Is there anything more romantic than the wedding that suites your unique and individual sense of the love that belongs to you only? There is no right nor wrong way to create your dream ceremony. A Gothic Wedding may not be considered traditional, but truth be told, most of the “traditions” of modern matrimony, are seeded deep within the 13^th century. The flowers, the gown, the wedding party, and even the honeymoon are centuries old. All of which originated in the beautiful European landscape. Unfortunately, for most of us, a glorious German castle, or the lustrous rolling knolls of Ireland will never be within our grasp, there are ways to plan the majestic wedding, wherever you call home. I have gathered some ideas and listed them below. Hopefully the suggestions will spark your own creativity; and remember, it’s your wedding, the sky is the limit.

Majestic Medieval Ring

Attire: One of the more enticing reasons for planning a Gothic Wedding, is the deep, rich color palettes you will have to work with. For example, 3 Rexes has a gorgeous selection of stones and gothic designs. Once you and your love choose your perfect design, it is much easier to build your day around the style you have chosen. There are a lot of very talented designers that can be found on the internet. With the vast array of beautiful, vibrant colors to choose from, your venue will fall into place. Your ring will match your dress, and if you like, your flowers too!

Location: As I stated earlier, most of us will never have our castle wedding, but there are a lot of wonderful alternatives. For example, check with your local historical society. There are a lot of historical sites that offer well manicured, open fields, which can easily be molded into a picturesque countryside. Or perhaps a two hundred year old church is more to your liking. Most of the historic churches are lit only by candlelight, and just imagine the pipe organ vibrating off the acoustics of the stone walls. Another truly fantastic location I’ve stumbled upon are located in caves. At first you may think this idea is too “touristy”, but in all honesty, they are beautiful. I have seen two sites that offer wedding packages. They actually have underground chapels that are laminated only by candlelight. Just imagine the soft light flickering of the glossy walls.

Invitations: There are also endless possibilities for the type of wedding invitations available to you that can be purchased from local artisans. There are also some easy do-it-yourself invitation projects. You can antique your invitations by soaking them in a shallow pan of brewed tea. This process will mimic the appearance of stiff linen, which was used for paper centuries ago. You can also change the tint of the invitation by using different types of tea, and the time you allow them to soak in the mixture. Just remember that the invitation is the first hint to your guests, that they are going to be a part of your celebration.  Any Important information should be included in the invite and/or save a date mailing. Most people assume the ceremony will be held in a church, and the reception in a hall; it is necessary to inform the guest of the terrain, the theme and the suggested attire. It’s much easier to enjoy your event, if they know what to expect.

And the final tip…. Enjoy your day. This is the first day of your happily ever after. Just sit back and let your dreams paint the life you are destined to have.

Purple Amethyst: The Meaning of February’s Birthstone

The Empress Vampire brass ring with japanese amethyst faceted stone

Amethyst is the birth stone for February. This stunning quartz gemstones come in shades of lilac, purple and mauve, not to mention the Amethyst birthstone also embraces spiritual growth and protection. If you were born in February, the amethyst powers for healing will intensify more strongly for you. This is especially true as you hold an amethyst in your hand or wear a piece of amethyst jewelry against your skin. 

Pisces and the amethyst stone properties have a long history of association. In recent times, amethyst and Aquarius equally are believed to have a strong affiliation. This is due to February being the birthstone month for amethyst.

For those who are not born under Pisces or during February, you will still gain benefits from the properties of amethyst crystals. Even though amethyst crystal clusters will reverberate more strongly with those who fall under this zodiac sign, the benefits can be felt by anybody.

woman's princess love gothic amethyst wedding ring with silver stacking bands

The Amethyst meaning is spiritual growth and protection. These beautiful healing crystals are also known for bringing clarity of the mind to the owner. By wearing or using Amethyst crystals, you can become more in tune with your own feelings and get to know your inner self on a much deeper level. It is a gemstone which can bring you calmness, inner peace and is thought to heighten your natural intuition.

Amethysts are known for their ability to reduce addictive traits. The name amethyst is derived from the ancient Greek word “amethustos”, which translates to “not drunk”.  Goblets made of amethyst or in the color purple were used to hinder inebriation. Today, amethysts are used in alternative healing practices for reducing addiction to alcohol, drugs, sex, shopping and a number of other afflictions.

mens moorish gothic 1 stone wedding band with amethyst stone

The meaning of amethyst is also of protection. The Amethyst energy stones repel negative energy and attract positive energy. They can also protect the wearer against themselves, when addiction is concerned. It is a gemstone of spiritual protection that will help guide the wearer on their divine spiritual path. Amethyst is used to provide protection when working with ouija boards and for those who are regularly in contact with the spirit world.

Amethyst healing properties can relieve pain and swelling throughout the body by calming the nervous system. Amethyst is well known for having a positive affect against insomnia and nightmares. By placing an amethyst crystal under your bed, you can dispel nightmares and encourage lucid dreaming. Many people use Amethyst in meditation to allow relief of stress and anxiety.

I just love the beautiful, rich color of an amethyst jewelry. The warm colors match so flawlessly compliment everything I wear. During these cold, winter months, before the buds begin to bloom, I personally love the calming splash of color amethysts provide. (guest blogger: Kathie Hayes)

3 Rexes Website Here!

Medieval Wedding Traditions: Beauty Throughout The Ages

Medieval Wedding Traditions: Beauty Throughout the Ages

Royal Princess Gothic Engagement Ring with Garnet stone and Love Stacking Rings

There is such a romantic feeling that was born in the enchanting era known as the Middle Ages. Imagine organ music resonating through the picturesque archways of a great stone cathedral, the smell of flowers wafting through the open courtyard, and the undeniable beauty of a quaint English countryside.  From so very young, most of us dream of our fairy-tale wedding, the romance of your prince dropping to one knee, how your hand tremors as he places the engagement ring on your awaiting finger and the enchanted day when your King makes you his Queen.

Weddings during medieval times has given birth to many traditions that today's brides still follow. Betrothal was an important medieval tradition. The prospective bride and groom appeared in front of a priest and made solemn promises. They then exchanged rings and kisses, then waited for roughly 40 days, when the wedding ceremony then took place. Grooms were required to pay a "deposit" at the betrothal, and should he try to back out of an agreement, he would have to pay a penalty. This was equal to four times the betrothal price.

Medieval brides often wore blue, the traditional color of purity, rather than today's white dress. The traditional Maid of Honor began in England where the senior of the bridesmaids attended to the bride's every need the week or so before the wedding day. The Maid of Honor was an important part of the wedding plans. Not only was the she entrusted with creating the bouquet and other wedding decorations, but on the wedding day the Maid of Honor would help the bride dress.

Gothic Silver Raven Love ring with Blue Topaz Stone

During the feast, the bride and groom drank spiced wine from a fine chalice called the Wedding Cup. As midnight approached, guests tried to get into the newlywed's bedchamber to bring them a reinvigorating potion called "Bride's Broth".

Knights returning from the Crusades introduced medieval society to the tradition of a bridal veil. The veil was another symbol of purity and was also believed to protect the bride from "the evil eye." Garters became an important part of a medieval bride's wardrobe. As the couple hurried to their room, wedding guests followed and tried to grab the garter for good luck. Before this tradition, overzealous wedding guests often shredded the bride's clothing trying to grab a handful of lucky cloth. Tradition held that any man who gave his love a bride's garter would be guaranteed faithfulness.

Flowers were also important in a medieval wedding. Returning crusaders introduced medieval Europe to a Saracen tradition of weaving a crown out of orange blossoms. Only nobles could afford these very expensive blossoms. credit to: (medieval-castles.net)

Few images equal the wonder of a fairy-tale wedding in a medieval castle. A princess wearing her finest blue garments…a noble knight in his shiniest armor…the lord and his lady presiding from a table of honor…and the entire village attending to witness the glorious event. Medieval weddings in castles included these scenes, but they were much more complex. Marriage in the Middle Ages meant sharing a lord's property or a noble name.

Marriages may have taken place elsewhere, such as a church or in a peaceful garden, but the wedding party would return to the castle to feast and celebrate for hours-even days.

Brandy Wine Ring Medieval Wedding Crown with Yellow Citrine Stone

Such wonderful images of the Middle Ages can be captured today. Our beautifully crafted Gothic designs form dainty promise rings, engagement crowns; to our regal silver wedding bands for Kings and Queens, we can help your embrace the uniqueness that only you two can share.

3 Rexes Website Here!