Jet of the Day - Laura Stamper Designs

 

“There is no remedy for love, but to love more” 

Henry David Thoreau

Filigree Heart and Love-Tag Charm Necklace - Designs by Cher

The history of Valentine's Day and its patron saint  is shrouded in mystery. But we do know that February has long been a month of romance. There are at least three saints’ legends in the Catholic tradition that pay tribute to Valentine.
 

Love Struck Notecards - BlancheB - SB Photography

One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome.  When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine's actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death.

Sterling Heart - Sweetheart Ring - Metalicious

 While some believe that Valentine's Day is celebrated in the middle of February to commemorate the anniversary of Valentine's death, others claim that the Christian church may have decided to celebrate Valentine's feast day in the middle of February in an effort to "Christianize" celebrations of the pagan Lupercalia festival. Lupercalia, which began at the ides of February, February 15, was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, as well as to the Roman founders Romulus and Remus.

"Loyal" Copper Heart Enameled Earrings - Endless Bounty

In European traditional art and folklore, the heart symbol is drawn in a stylized shape. This shape is typically colored red, suggesting both blood and, in many cultures, passion and strong emotion. The shape is particularly associated with romance and love.  Although it does not really resemble the actual human heart, it has been used as an illustration of the emotional heart for centuries. 

Minimalist Red Swarovski Heart Pendant - Your Daily Jewels

Whatever the origins of this day and its symbols are, the celebration of romance and love crosses all cultures and ages.  So what makes the perfect Valentine gift?  Whatever speaks to your heart!

Heart Earrings in Reclaimed Copper and Sterling Silver - Laura Stamper Designs

            “Passion makes the world go round.  Love just makes it a safer place.”     Ice T

 Thanks for reading,
Laura