"Lord Denethor is Boromir's father. To bring him news of his beloved son's death would be most unwise. And don't mention Frodo or the ring. And say nothing of Aragorn either. In fact, it's best if you don't speak at all, Peregrin Took." - J.R.R. Tolkien

As much as I love modern jewelry I have to admit that, on a day-to-day basis, the pieces that I get the most wear out of are...(depending on your point of view)...vintage...antique...old. Well made...generally of a better grade of material than I could afford if I bought something similar that was newly made today...with the occasional reminder of its former owners (usually in the form of a few knocks and blemishes that show that both the piece, and its f.o.'s, lived it up a little).

Case in point...this adorable banded agate signet ring from the mid-1800's...just when you think that nothing could be better than the scrolling gold...and the ring's "ornate collegiate" feel...you look inside and see the word "Beloved" engraved there...