Published: March 24, 2008 12:03 pm         

WW I,II sweetheart jewlery to be on display at museum

The Morton Museum of Cooke County is set to mark Women’s History month and Medal of Honor host city activities with a display of sweetheart military jewelry at the museum.

The exhibit is scheduled to open at 10:30 a.m. April 1 (a Tuesday) with a reception.

Sweetheart military jewelry has a history dating back to World War I. During both World War I and World War II, jewelers saw the birth of a craze for military-themed items.

Although antique sweetheart jewelry comes in many forms, the items military personnel often sent home to their loved ones usually had common themes — love and patriotism.

A serviceman might bring his wife or girlfriend a gold locket with a military insignia.

A soldier might send his mother a four leaf clover with a U.S. Army Eagle overlay.

Gainesville jeweler Gina Dill, owner of Kinne’s Jewelers, has several collections of rare and unusual jewelry, silverware and decorative household items in her Mezzanine Museum located in the upper story of the historic California Street building.

She is especially fond of her sweetheart jewelry.

“Sweetheart Jewelry will always be important as mementos. The jewelry was special to the military men and women who were abroad. The creation of pins, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, lockets and many other items gave those dealing with war on the home front something to honor loved ones,” she said.

Dill said the jewelry was a way for servicemen and their families to show their patriotism.

It was also a symbol of hope and the belief that a beloved family member would return safely from war.

“Kinne’s Jewelers is proud to have this outstanding collection of sweetheart jewelry as Gainesville is designated as a Medal of Honor host city,” she said.

The items are also a clue to the past.

“By studying these keepsakes one can only imagine the hard work and sacrifice that saw America through two world wars. These sweetheart jewelry and collectible items are truly memories and reflections of strong people who united for victory — and prevailed — when a world at war demanded their best,” she said.

Cathy Farquhar of the Morton Museum of Cooke County said the pieces are a “continuous celebration” of patriotism.

Reservations for the reception at the museum may be made by calling 668-8900.

Tickets are $5 for Cooke County Historical Society members and $7 for non members. Organizers plan to serve refreshments.

Museum staff and board members are also planning their fundraiser auction.

The annual event is held each May.

“It is the museum’s major money raiser,” Farquhar said.

A vintage wedding style show is also set for June at the Santa Depot.