THE ETYMOLOGY OF LUXURY

If a discerning group of people sat in a room together and were asked about what luxury means, they would end up with a long list of words that might include abundance, opulence, elegance, and sophistication. These are contemporary meanings.

When we look at etymology, or the origin and history of words, something fascinating emerges, something that may shift our understanding of luxury altogether.

The Latin word luxus, from which luxury is derived, shares its origins with lux, meaning light. This suggests an older, deeper association between elegance, indulgence, etc, and illumination, luminosity, clarity, and radiance.

In ancient Rome, where the term luxus first emerged, villas were designed with expansive windows and courtyards that maximized natural light, symbolizing both material wealth and intellectual clarity.

Even as the word luxus evolved through medieval and Renaissance Europe, and its connection to light gradually faded, leaving its meaning shifted toward grandeur and sumptuousness, light remained a constant symbol of refinement. In architecture, the flow of natural and reflected light remains a central value. In high and fine jewellery, a masterful understanding of light enhances the brilliance of diamonds and precious metals, turning each piece into a radiant work of art.

In contemporary design, we’re drawn to light, consistently and instinctively, in an attempt to bring ourselves and the elements around us to life, drawing us toward elegance and abundance, yes, but also toward illumination and clarity.

At Humbertown Jewellers, we’re committed to a continued exploration of luxury in our custom designs and in our array of high and fine jewellery. Explore your own relationship with luxury by visiting Humbertown Jewellers.