It's famous for being the most romantic day of the year. And many of us use it as a chance to show affection for our loved ones with cards, jewellery, flowers and chocolates. But why do we celebrate Valentine's day and why does it fall on February 14?

The Catholic Church recognises at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus. One states that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers, he outlawed marriage for young men. Valentine, realising the injustice, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages in secret. When Valentine’s actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death.

Alternatively, Valentine's Day is an old tradition thought to have originated from a Roman Festival called Lupercalia. It was held on February 15 as a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture. During the celebrations boys would draw names of girls from a box and the pair would be partners during the festival. These matches often led to marriage.

The festival survived the initial rise of Christianity but was outlawed at the end of the 5th century when Pope Gelasius declared February 14 St Valentine's Day.

Over the centuries, the holiday evolved, and by the 18th century, gift-giving and exchanging handmade cards on Valentine's Day had become common in England. Handmade valentine cards made of lace, ribbons, and featuring cupids and hearts. Today the day has become a commercial success. According to the Greeting Card Association, 25% of all cards sent each year are Valentines.

Here are a few gift ideas for your Valentine...

Hot Diamonds - There are plenty of hearts and other treasures in this stunning collection - each crafted from Sterling Silver and adorned with a shimmering real Diamond.

 

 

Hearts -  You can’t really go wrong with a heart!!

 

 

Time to show your love!! - We stock famous brand Citizen, Sekonda and Rotary Watches.

 

 

Something for him…

 

Have a Happy Valentine's Day!