Up to this point in time all jewelry was the end product of a small handcraft industry. Now, in the eighteenth century, factory-made ornaments began to appear. As with so many other everyday objects, quality suffered and the jewelry making art went into decline. The changes were not all negative. Jewelry wearing was finally brought to all the people by less expensive mass production; it was no longer considered a social privilege. True, certain kinds of very expensive jewelry are still indicators of economic privilege, but there is beautiful jewelry available for all. The new technology introduced another noble metal—platinum —for use in jewelry. Mechanization, too, allows for rapid changes in jewelry styles to match changes in styles of dress. Oddly enough, the popularization of jewelry has also brought about a strong revival of interest in new jewelry designs and in individually hand-crafted pieces. Each year, for example, awards are made for original designs entered in the International Diamond Awards competition. There are always some very imaginative pieces among the winners, which serve to encourage still more skilled artists and designers to apply themselves to this ancient pursuit. Check also princess diamond earrings, white gold engagement rings and engagement ring settings