The Significance of Stones Used in Ottoman Jewellery

Stones and gems hold a huge cultural and regional significance in the ancient history. They have been used as a sign of status and power ever since the age of men. When we look into history, gemstones became more prominent and widely recognized as a precious object back in the days when Ottomans were in power in Europe. Gemstones become a huge part of the Ottoman culture and they were used in jewellery to make them look more valuable. When you look at these objects, you will start to realize that there is surely more to how these stones became so popular and an important component in our jewellery that we see today.
 

When looking at the beautiful and striking jewellery pieces worn by the Ottoman Empire, it is pretty conceivable to think there is a deeper significance to these amazing stones, which we all cannot deny. As we know, the stones and gems were used to show one's power and position in the society, however, in the Ottoman culture, these stones were used by the sultans because they believed these stones possessed special power inside them. The jewellery worn by the Ottomans, specifically gemstone rings, presents a deeper meaning to the way sultans reflected their philosophies.

 During the 16th century, the importance of jewellery became undeniably high, the time when Ottomans were in power in most parts of Europe, and fascinatingly, the ottomans already valued gemstones as something of great value. The Ottoman sultans brought stones from all over Europe and handed them to their jewelers in order to create the most iconic and flashy jewellery pieces.

The Ottomans Jewellery was all about naturalism. This doesn’t mean the jewellery they wore was not flashy, it only means they valued and used stones in their original form. They gave prominence to the stones in natural form rather than stones in perfect symmetry. Stones such as Emerald, Ruby, Diamond, Pearl, Jade, Coral, and Agate were the most popular stones in the Ottoman culture and history.
 

Gemstones allowed for a colourful range of jewellery for the Ottoman Empire. Here is a look into the most 3 popular gemstones used by the Ottoman sultans and their meaning and power in history and today.
 

Emerald
According to the Ottomans, Emerald is the sacred stone of the Goddess Venus. They believe this greenish-black stone has the power to preserve love and is considered a symbol of hope. Some consider it a stone of prophecy, though, it has also been used before as a way to soothe and calm one’s mind. The stone is believed to offer wisdom to the wearer, a common characteristic of the Ottomans. This stone offers a different meaning when being used as a gift. You can gift an emerald jewellery to your lover and they will stay faithful forever. This may be the reason why wives of sultans had emerald on their jewellery. 

Today, Emerald’s significance in society has decreased, however, it is still used today in Ottoman jewellery designs, specifically in Turkey where the Ottoman culture is still somehow present in art, jewellery, and even in their societal practices.
 

RubyRuby is considered the most powerful gemstone in the universe and is usually associated with various astral signs. The stone is said to bring peace and serenity to the wearer. Even, sleeping with a ruby under your pillow may protect you from bad dreams. Ottomans used ruby rings on their left had to receive life force and protection.
Today, ruby represents royalty and power and is worn by queens and kings. It is also considered a symbol of love and friendship when given as a gift. 
 

DiamondDiamond is the most valued gem of all. It symbolises innocence and constancy and is valued as the crown jewel. Ottoman sultans considered it a stone that enhances the power of other stones. They wore rings and necklaces that featured a set stone in the center and diamonds around it. They believed the diamond could block the flow of energy when the wearer has negative feelings and thoughts.
 

Today, diamond is considered the most precious stone and is used as engagement rings and in earrings, necklaces, nose rings, bracelets, etc.