Just as there are different kinds of necklaces that vary in size, shape, and mass, there are also a variety of styles of pendants. When taking a close look at the depiction of an old master’s painting in a photo, pendant wearing nobles were quite often portrayed with astonishing attention to detail. These pendants were quite often awarded by the crowned heads of Europe for acts of bravery, distinction in combat, or they were part and parcel of a land grant. Such a pendant – occasionally a diamond pendant but more often one of the more frequently seen gold pendants – was generally referred to as an award.
In direct opposition to these awards is the silver pendant which is still quite popular today. When it comes to styles of pendants, these vary greatly and quite often are used for identification purposes. Think of the silver pendants that portray the animals of the zodiac, the sterling silver pendant depicting the cross that is quite popular with certain religious orders, and of course the ubiquitous medical information pendants.
A dichroic glass pendant is an ornament that is used for jewelry and has very little meaning otherwise. These styles of pendants are perhaps the largest group, as jewelry makes up the bulk of the pendants which may be seen around the necks of most people. A heart shaped pendant may speak of love and devotion, while crystal pendants are favored by those who embrace certain earth religions or holistic healing methods. Cross pendants may be seen in all sizes and shapes, while wood, stone, and even bones are used to make any kind of pendant imaginable.
Yet while dichroic glass pendants, sterling silver pendants and also the cross pendant all fall into one or mores styles of pendants, it is noteworthy that the distinction between the different styles of pendants has begun to blur. For example, amulets in the past would be made of either bones or feathers, but currently they are being made of gold, silver, and even jade and sold in little shops for purposes similar to that of their less fanciful predecessors.
Cheap pendants, made from plastic or cheap metals, may also be found. Usually these are sold on the mass market for children or as memorabilia during a sporting event or other occasion. Quite often these kinds of designs are less artistic and more “bling” oriented. Since they are considered memorabilia, quite often they are not made to be worn but instead to be displayed, traded, or simply added to a recognizable outfit or uniform.
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