Red-white-blue autumn
Autor: Magdalena Kořínková
The autumn months bring significant national holidays. Saint Wenceslas Day on 28th September, the Czechoslovak Independence Day on 28th October, and November’s Day of Struggle for Freedom and Democracy. This autumn, elections for the Chamber of Deputies were also held, often referred to as the “festival of democracy.” All these important days are associated with the national flag and the colours of blue, red, and white. Why these colours, and how can you celebrate these days with a piece of jewellery?
Historically, red and white are the traditional colours of the Czech lands, and as there are only so many basic colours, several countries share them. Poland, for example, also uses red and white, so after 1918, it was necessary to consider adding another colour. In 1920, blue was chosen, taken from the Moravian coat of arms and representing Slovakia in the shared state. This tricolour thus created a Slavic or Russian-style flag, which also represents the USA, France, and the United Kingdom.
During the period of the Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia, the flag had a 2:3 ratio with three horizontal stripes; the flag returned to its current form after the liberation of Czechoslovakia. After 1960, national colours as a state symbol disappeared, although the colour combination persisted in people’s minds, as seen in 1968/69 and 1989, when citizens used the tricolour to express dissent. After the creation of the independent Czech Republic, the national colours became an official state symbol again.
Interestingly, between 13th March 1990 and 31st December 1992, the Czech Republic briefly had a two-coloured national flag, with blue once again omitted.
Let's explore each colour, including our jewellery recommendations with corresponding precious stones.
Blue
The blue on our flag symbolises the clear sky over our land, a symbol of peace.
Blue is one of the most popular colours. It represents truth, peace, calm, and tranquillity, reminiscent of a clear, cloudless sky or sparkling ocean waves. Aquamarines, sapphires, topazes, opals, lapis lazuli, turquoise… these gemstones have been beloved for centuries, and the same holds true today. Today, we’d like to introduce you to the stunning tanzanite.
Tanzanite was discovered in 1967 and is thus often referred to as the “gemstone of the 20th century.” Named by Tiffany & Co., after its discovery site in Tanzania, this beautiful stone changes colours slightly depending on the viewing angle – from deep blue to a subtle purple.
It is associated with Sagittarians and Aquarians and has recently been recognised as one of December’s birthstones. So, if you’re already considering Christmas gifts, here’s a beautiful, blue idea.
Red
Red honours the blood of heroes who gave their lives for peace, freedom, and democracy.
Not long ago, we published an article devoted to red gemstones. Tourmalines, Bohemian garnets, jaspers, agates, beryls, carnelians, topazes, and especially rubies are not only beautiful and valuable stones but also inspire courage, joy, and love in their wearers.
This article focuses on carnelian. This stunning red chalcedony gets its colour from a high iron content. Its name, carneus, means “flesh-like” in Latin, reflecting its hue.
Carnelian is often used for making seals and signets because hot wax doesn’t stick to it. Its fine structure also makes it suitable for engraving, often featuring family crests or initials. You can find several such pieces in our collection.
White
White symbolises purity of thought, on which the state is founded, representing the ideals of freedom and democracy.
Diamonds, sapphires, topazes, moonstones, opals, quartz, or pearls, if you love the colour white, there is much to choose from. We have separate articles on diamonds and pearls, but this time we’re highlighting opal.
This stunning iridescent gemstone forms when seasonal rains seep deep into the earth, carrying dissolved silica compounds. When the rains cease and moisture evaporates, silica deposits remain, forming the foundation for opal.
The beautiful colour play in opals comes from tiny silica spheres arranged in a grid pattern. When light passes through them, it refracts and splits, creating an opalescent rainbow effect. It’s no wonder opals are one of the most popular gemstones!
Red-White-Blue Combination
If you want to express your patriotism with jewellery featuring the national colours, you might have to search carefully… or stop by our shop on Maiselova Street. We have a ring featuring this colour combination available. However, if you are reading this article when the ring has already found its new owner, don’t despair – you can at least choose from the combinations of white and blue, white and red, or red and blue. Alternatively, you can have a custom piece made – our skilled goldsmith is ready to fulfil any of your wishes.
