Black Hills Gold jewelry is a unique line of jewelry that is made in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The jewelry is distinguished by its tri-color designs. Typically, the basic ring, bracelet, or pendant is made of 10 karat yellow gold. A grape cluster is also made in yellow gold. Grape leaves or other ornamentation in 12 karat pink and green gold complete the design. More recently, Black Hills Gold jewelry has been set in sterling silver with the 12 karat pink and green gold leaves.
The Origin
The story goes that goldsmith Henri LeBeau came to the U.S. from France to participate in the 1876 Black Hills Gold Rush. The venture did not work out because he got lost in the Black Hills and almost died of starvation. Luckily, Henri came upon some wild grapes, which saved his life. In tribute to the grapes, Henri designed jewelry with a grape motif. His designs became known as Black Hills Gold. Other lore is that wearing Black Hills Gold jewelry brings good luck to the wearer.
The Jewelry
Black Hills Gold is made for both men and women. Many of the women’s rings, earrings, and bracelets tend to look very feminine due to the grape cluster and delicate leaf designs. You can choose from a variety of women’s rings, with or without gemstones. Many are simple in design, such as a narrow gold band with a small diamond nestled between one green leaf and one pink leaf. Band rings with bolder designs are also popular. Other favorite motifs in women’s rings are hearts, roses, butterflies, angels, and crosses. Pendants, earrings, and bracelets are also made for women in Black Hills Gold. Men’s jewelry in Black Hills gold is usually found in bold band- or signet-style rings.
Black Hills Gold also has a line of watches which are gold-plated rather than actual gold. The face of the watch will be adorned with tiny pink and green 12 karat gold leaves similar to the jewelry. Made for women and men, the watches are usually elegant in design and very affordable.
Vintage Black Hills Gold Jewelry
Your mother or grandmother may own a piece of Black Hills Gold that she acquired many years ago. Black Hills Gold jewelry holds up and probably looks as good today as it did when she first wore it. Also, because of the traditional grape cluster and leaf designs, an older piece of Black Hills Gold jewelry will coordinate perfectly with a brand new piece.
Black Hills Gold Jewelry as a Gift
Black Hills Gold jewelry makes a thoughtful and affordable gift for a male or female. While you may not find Black Hills Gold jewelry for sale in your local jewelry or department store, it is readily available on the internet and TV shopping channels. If there is someone on your gift list who enjoys American history, she will especially love the connection to the Black Hills. If you are unsure of a ring size, you can purchase earrings or a pendant without concern about the fit. Your gift of Black Hills Gold Jewelry is sure to be appreciated.
Conclusion
Black Hills Gold jewelry has a distinct, instantly-recognizable design with the gold grape cluster and pink and green leaves. It has been treasured for decades for its beauty and design. Every piece of Black Hills Gold jewelry coordinates with other pieces. It is not necessary, however, to own more than one piece. Black Hills Gold jewelry also goes nicely with any other gold jewelry. In addition to the beauty and originality of Black Hills Gold jewelry, it is treasured because of its historical connection to the Black Hills and because it is made in America.
Postscript – My single piece of Black Hills Gold jewelry was a gift from my husband several years ago. He wanted to give me a gold peace sign pendant, but this was before they were available everywhere. We were about to have one made when I found the Black Hills Gold piece on the internet. The pendant is designed beautifully. The standard peace sign with the inverted “Y” in a circle is brushed yellow gold. On one side next to the bale are one pink leaf and one green leaf, both with amazing detail for their small size. On the other side, there are seven tiny gold rings encircling the frame of the peace sign. These rings are based on a legend that wearing seven rings grouped together will make your wishes come true. There is one ring for each day of the week. There is also some diamond cutting on the frame. It sounds busy, but these elements go together perfectly for a beautiful presentation. I treasure my Black Hills Gold peace sign and wear it frequently.
Resources:
History of the Black Hills,” Wind Cave National Park website
Rachel Heller, “Black Hills Gold Has an Interesting History,” Associated Content (Feb. 14, 2007)
“The Black Hills Gold Legend,” Mt. Rushmore Black Hills Gold
