The rich, vibrant color and exquisite beauty of red roses make them a universal symbol for deep, romantic love. Beyond romance, red roses can also symbolize respect, admiration, and courage.

In this article, we look at the meaning of giving red roses, what occasions red roses are suitable for and the meaning behind receiving different number of roses. We also explore the origin of giving red roses.

Meanings Of Red Roses

1. Love & Romance: The most classic and widely recognized symbolism of red roses is love and romance. Red roses are often used to express deep and passionate love, making them a popular choice for romantic occasions like Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, and romantic gestures.
   
   
2. Beauty & Perfection: Red roses are also a symbol of beauty and perfection. Their striking appearance and elegant form can represent an ideal of beauty or an admiration for physical beauty.
   
   
3. Respect & Admiration: Giving red roses can convey respect and deep admiration for someone. It’s a way of showing profound esteem and appreciation.
   
   
4. Courage & Congratulations: In some contexts, red roses can symbolize courage and a congratulatory message. They might be given to someone who has achieved a significant milestone or shown great bravery.
   
   
5. Deep Emotion & Devotion: Beyond romantic love, red roses can express deep, strong emotions and a sense of devotion, whether in a romantic, familial, or even platonic context.
   
   
6. Mourning & Remembrance: In some cultures, red roses are used to express sincere love and respect for someone who has passed away, symbolizing mourning and remembrance.
   

The meaning of red roses can vary depending on the context and the cultural background, but love and romance remain their most enduring and universal symbol.

What Occasions Or Events Are Red Roses Suitable For?

Red roses are versatile and timeless, making them suitable to be given on a variety of occasions and events. Some of the most common instances where red roses are given include:

1. Valentine’s Day: Perhaps the most popular occasion for giving red roses, they are a classic symbol of love and romance on this day dedicated to expressing affection.
   
   
2. Anniversaries: Red roses are a popular choice for anniversaries, symbolizing love, passion, and the enduring nature of a relationship.
   
   
3. Weddings: Red roses are often used in weddings to symbolize love and passion. They are common in bridal bouquets, decorations, and as part of the overall wedding theme.
   
   
4. Birthdays: For a romantic partner or a loved one, red roses on a birthday signify love, deep affection, and admiration.
   
   
5. Mother’s Day: To express love and gratitude, red roses are often given to mothers, symbolizing respect and appreciation for their unconditional love.
   
   
6. Apologies: Sometimes used to express sincere regret or to ask for forgiveness, red roses can convey a deep sense of remorse and the desire to make amends in a relationship.
   
   
7. Funerals or Memorials: In some cultures, red roses are given as a sign of respect and love for the deceased, symbolizing grief and a deep sense of loss.
   
   
8. Achievements and Congratulations: Red roses can also be given to celebrate achievements, milestones, or to congratulate someone on a significant accomplishment, symbolizing respect and admiration.
   

The use of red roses in various ceremonies and traditions highlights their versatility as a symbol of deep affection, profound respect, and enduring passion.

What Does Giving Or Receiving Different Number Of Roses Mean?

Giving different numbers of roses carries specific meanings and can convey a variety of messages in the language of flowers. Here’s a general guide to what different quantities of roses can symbolize.

• 1 Rose: You are my one and only or love at first sight
  
  
• 2 Roses: Represents mutual love and affection. When entwined, two roses can symbolize a marriage proposal.
  
  
• 3 Roses: Signify a traditional one-month anniversary gift or simply “I love you.”
  
  
• 5 Roses: Typically symbolizes appreciation and gratitude. To thank someone for their kindness, support, or significant impact in your life.
  
  
• 6 Roses: I want to be yours.
  
  
• 7 Roses: Giving 7 roses is commonly associated with the message of infatuation or being secretly in love with someone.
  
  
• 8 Roses: A symbol of support and encouragement. It can be a way to express solidarity, reassurance, and deep commitment to someone, indicating that you are there for them through various circumstances.
  
  
• 9 Roses: Symbolize eternal love, conveying the message, “I want to be with you forever.”
  
  
• 10 Roses: You are perfect.
  
  
• 11 Roses: Giving 11 roses typically conveys a message of deep and enduring love. It’s often interpreted as a sign that the giver is truly and deeply in love with the recipient.
  
  
• 12 Roses: A classic number, often representing a perfect dozen, which is a common way to say, “Be mine.”
  
  
• 13 Roses: Can have various meanings. In some contexts, they mean a secret admirer; in others, they can symbolize eternal friendship or a forever kind of love.
  
  
• 15 Roses: Often given to apologize or express regret.
  
  
• 20 Roses: Symbolize sincerity and belief in the relationship.
  
  
• 21 Roses: Show commitment and a dedicated “I’m devoted to you” message.
  
  
• 24 Roses: Represent a message of “I’m yours” or “I think of you 24 hours a day.”
  
  
• 25 Roses: Often sent to congratulate someone on an achievement.
  
  
• 30 Roses: Indicate a declaration of love and faith.
  
  
• 36 Roses: Conveys enduring love with 3 dozen roses.
  
  
• 40 Roses: Symbolize genuine love and affection.
  
  
• 50 Roses: My love for you is unconditional.
  
  
• 66 Roses: Nothing will change my love for you.
  
  
• 77 Roses: You are my soul mate.
  
  
• 99 Roses: I will love you for eternity.
  
  
• 100 Roses: Signify a completely devoted love, often used for grand romantic gestures or marriage proposals.
  
  
• 101 Roses: Represent the utmost devotion and commitment.
  
  
• 108 Roses: Traditionally used in marriage proposals, meaning “Will you marry me?”
  
  

Remember, the number of roses and their meanings can vary by culture and individual interpretation. The most important aspect of giving roses is the sentiment behind them, which can be personalized to convey your unique message to the recipient.

The Origin Of Giving Red Roses

The tradition of giving red roses has deep historical roots, with its origins tracing back to ancient times and intertwining with mythology and cultural practices.

1. Greek & Roman Mythologies: The association of red roses with love and passion is often linked to ancient Greek and Roman mythologies. In Greek mythology, the red rose was connected to Aphrodite (or Venus in Roman mythology), the goddess of love. According to one legend, red roses arose from the ground where Aphrodite’s tears fell and mixed with the blood of her lover, Adonis, symbolizing love and a union that transcends death.
   
   The Romans revered the rose for its beauty and scent and used it in celebrations, as decorations, and for medicinal purposes. Roses, especially red ones, were symbols of deeper emotions.
   
   
2. Medieval and Renaissance Periods: During these times, the symbolism of roses, particularly red ones, evolved in literature and art. They were often used to convey messages of love and desire in a time when such feelings were not openly expressed. The red rose also appeared in Christian
   
   
3. Victorian Era and the Language of Flowers: In the 19th century, the language of flowers, or floriography, became a popular way to communicate sentiments in a socially acceptable manner. Red roses were firmly entrenched as symbols of love and affection during this period.
   
   
4. Modern Times: The symbolism of the red rose has been further popularized and romanticized in contemporary culture through literature, film, and media, solidifying its association with romantic love, passion, and beauty.

Today, red roses continue to be the quintessential symbol of love and are often used in romantic gestures, Valentine’s Day celebrations, anniversaries, and other expressions of deep affection. The long-standing tradition of giving red roses as a declaration of love is a testament to the enduring power and appeal of this beautiful flower.

To find out more, read our article about different rose colors and what they mean.

The post The Meaning Of Red Roses: Symbolism & Gifting first appeared on Sara Verdier.

The process of buying roses is trickier that it seem! How can you actually tell that the roses you are getting are fresh and of good quality? In this guide, we will be sharing our advice on the following:

1. How to select and pick out high-quality and fresh roses
2. Where to buy and what to look out for at the flower shop

How To Choose The Color Of The Rose

Before buying, you first need to decide the purpose of the roses. Are these roses a gift? Are they for a special occasion? If so, what kind? Different colors of roses can symbolize different things.

For example, red roses typically symbolize love and romance, while yellow roses often symbolize friendship. Check out our article on rose colors and their meaning to find out which is the perfect rose color for you.

How To Select Fresh Roses

Choosing high-quality and fresh roses involves a combination of visual inspections, touch and even smell. Here are some key points to consider when checking the quality of roses:

Petals. Petals form the main body of the flower and is the most visually striking part of the rose. The petals should look fresh, vibrant, and should not show signs of wilting or discoloration. A high-quality rose’s petals should be well-hydrated, appearing plump and firm to the touch, but not hard.

Additionally, the petals should be elastic and hold their shape well. If you bend the petal, it should return to its original position.

Look closely also for signs of damage such as brown/blackened edges, spots, or holes. These could be signs of aging, disease, or pest infestations. If you notice petals that are loose, dropping or discolored, it’s likely that the rose is not fresh or has been stored improperly.

If the outer petals (known as guard petals) are slightly more rugged or discolored, this doesn’t necessarily indicate a lack of freshness; their purpose is to protect the inner petals, and florists often remove these before arranging.

Buds: The state of the bud is an essential indicator of the rose’s freshness and its potential lifespan. Ideally, the bud should be slightly open, allowing you to see the color of the rose, but not fully bloomed. A fully bloomed rose has reached its peak and might not last much longer. Conversely, a bud that is too tight or hard and shows no color may never open, as it might have been cut too early.

Stem. The stem of a fresh rose should be firm to the touch, not soft or bendable. If the stem is soft, limp, or easily bendable, it is likely that the rose is old or not properly hydrated. A healthy, high-quality rose will have a robust and green stem, without any signs of browning or wilting.

The stems should also feel well-hydrated, not dry or brittle. A fresh cut at the stem’s end helps the rose to absorb water better, keeping it hydrated and fresh. If the bottom of the stem is dry or the cut appears old, this could reduce the rose’s vase life. The color of the bottom of the stem where it was cut should look light green and not blackish.

Leaves. The leaves of the rose should be a vibrant green and not yellow or brown. Any discoloration, wilting, or spots on the leaves could be a sign of disease or lack of freshness. Fresh rose leaves are typically smooth and have a natural shine to them.

Thorns: While the presence or absence of thorns does not directly reflect the quality of the rose, many professional florists remove the thorns for aesthetic and safety reasons. Therefore, a thornless stem might indicate careful handling and attention to detail from the florist.

Smell: Fresh roses should emit a subtle and pleasing scent. If the roses have no scent, or if the scent is unpleasant, this might indicate that the roses are not fresh or have been stored for too long. However, keep in mind that some rose varieties naturally have less scent than others.

Where To Buy High Quality & Fresh Roses?

Buying from a reputable shop is essential to ensuring you receive high-quality roses. If you’re buying online, look for clear, accurate photos, detailed product descriptions, and a freshness guarantee.

A well-established shop or florist with positive reviews is often a good indicator of quality. Look for online reviews or ask friends and family for recommendations. Be sure to pay attention to comments about the freshness and longevity of their flowers.

Good packaging protects roses from damage and indicates that the florist cares about their product. Roses should be well-protected, especially during transport, but they should not be so tightly wrapped that they become damaged or squashed. Check for damage caused by poor packaging, such as broken stems or crushed petals.

What To Look Out For At The Florist Or Store

1) Roses, like all cut flowers, need water to stay fresh. Check to make sure the roses have been kept in water. If the flower shop provides a packet of flower food to nourish the roses and prolong their life, it’s a good sign they care about the quality of their flowers.

2) Look at the flowers on display. Are they vibrant and fresh-looking, or do they appear wilted or discolored?

3) Shops with a good variety of flowers and high turnover generally have fresher stock, as flowers are less likely to sit for extended periods.

4) A good florist should be able to give you advice on how to care for your roses and increase their vase life. This includes tips on how to cut the stems, what kind of water to use, and whether to use flower food.

5) Roses that have to travel a long distance might not be as fresh as locally grown flowers. Ask the florist about where the roses come from, as well as how they’re transported and stored.

6) Roses are typically fresher and of higher quality during their natural growing season, which usually is late spring to early fall in most climates. Purchasing roses in-season could lead to better quality and lower prices.

7) If possible, try to buy flowers early in the morning. That’s often when they’re freshest, having just been watered and prepared for the day.

8) Maintaining an appropriate temperature is important for preserving the quality and longevity of cut flowers. As the temperature rises, both respiration rate and water loss increase. This will lead to roses wilting. Therefore, flower shops that keep their roses in a cool condition are more likely to have fresh roses.

We hope that the advice and tips above are helpful when you purchase your bouquet of roses!

The post How To Pick And Buy The Best Roses first appeared on Sara Verdier.

It is so important to know that in some cultures, certain colors have meanings that can differ from the traditional Western symbolism. For example, while white roses are often associated with purity and innocence in Western cultures. However, they can signify death and mourning in some Asian cultures.

If you are buying roses as a gift, the recipient may simply have a favorite color. By choosing roses in this color, you show that you know and consider their preferences, which can make your gift more thoughtful and personal.

Therefore, understanding the significance of rose colors can help you choose the most appropriate roses for any given situation or recipient.

Here’s a guide to help you understand the different rose colors and what they mean:

Meaning Of Red Roses

What do red roses stand for? Perhaps the most well-known color, red roses are the universal symbol of love and passion. This dates back to Greek and Roman times, where the rose was sacred to Aphrodite and Venus respectively (https://historycollection.com/40-facts-about-the-holiday-of-love/18/), the goddesses of love. Over time, the red rose has come to symbolize deep emotions, such as longing and desire, as well as respect and admiration. Red roses are often gifted on occasions such as Valentine’s Day and anniversaries

Meaning Of Pink Roses

What do pink roses represent? Pink roses were actually more popular than red roses in the Victorian era as a symbol of love and admiration. They adorned dresses (https://www.mimimatthews.com/2016/08/30/shades-of-victorian-fashion-pretty-in-19th-century-pink/), walls in homes and other decorative items. The lighter shades are often used to express sympathy and admiration, while the darker shades can symbolize gratitude and appreciation. In general, pink roses capture the essence of grace, elegance, and gentility.

Meaning Of Yellow Roses

What do yellow roses stand for? Originally, yellow roses symbolized jealousy and infidelity in Victorian England (https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/homes-and-property/gardens/never-send-yellow-roses-the-hidden-meaning-of-different-blooms-1.2962724). However, this meaning has significantly shifted. Today, yellow roses represent friendship, joy, and good health. Yellow roses are also commonly used to celebrate new beginnings, making them a good gift for someone starting a new job or moving to a new home.

Meaning Of White Roses

What do white roses symbolize? These roses are traditionally associated with marriages and new beginnings but are also used to express remembrance. White roses represent innocence, purity, and charm. In the language of flowers, they say, “I am worthy of you.” As mentioned earlier, remember that white roses have a very different meaning in some Asian cultures.

Meaning Of Orange Roses

Is there any meaning behind giving orange roses? Orange roses are a relatively new addition to the world of roses, coming into existence in the mid-20th century after rose breeders began crossing yellow and red roses. The Rosa ‘Soleil d’Or’ is considered the first orange rose and was cultivated by Joseph Pernet-Ducher (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Pernet-Ducher).

With their vibrant hue, these roses encapsulate energy, passion, and excitement. Orange roses can signify a budding romance or deep lust and desire. They also signal a sense of fascination with the recipient.

In addition, these roses can articulate feelings of warmth, appreciation, and gratitude. The sentiment behind giving orange roses can be as a warm ‘thank you’ or an expression of pride and joy in someone else’s accomplishments. Thus, they’re a fantastic choice for celebrations or to acknowledge someone’s achievements.

The shade of orange can signify the degree of passion. A darker orange or vermilion rose communicates a sense of intense passion and excitement, while a lighter, peach-colored rose might be used to express modesty, sincerity, or gratitude.

Meaning Of Lavender/Purple Roses

What is the significance of lavender or purple colored roses? The striking color of purple roses generally symbolizes enchantment and love-at-first-sight. Additionally, the color purple has also long been associated with royalty, nobility, and prestige. This connection can be extended to purple roses, making them a suitable gift when you want to express admiration and respect for someone who you see as dignified or distinguished.

The intensity of the color can also play a significant role in the symbolism of a purple rose. Deeper shades, nearing violet or plum, can express deep fascination, attraction, and a sense of regal majesty. On the other hand, lighter shades of lavender or lilac might signify love at first sight and carry a sense of uniqueness, wonder, and enchantment.

Source: Rose By Sara Verdier

Meaning Of Blue Roses

What do blue roses symbolize? Since they do not occur naturally (https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/10/181010111946.htm), blue roses can symbolize the mysterious or the unattainable. They are about striving for the impossible, about desiring something beyond one’s reach. They can also represent new opportunities and starting anew.

In terms of feelings, blue roses often symbolize deep and thoughtful emotions. They can stand for intense love and respect, much like red roses. But given their unusual and unnatural color, blue roses also embody a kind of love that is rare, deep, and very precious.

Meaning Of Green Roses

What is the significance of green roses? This color of roses hold a unique position in the array of rose color options due to their unusual color that’s often associated with nature, harmony, and rejuvenation. Green symbolize fertility and richness, reflecting the abundant life-giving quality of verdant fields and the tranquility of a lush, peaceful garden.

When you give a green rose, you might be conveying a message of fertility, growth, and continuous renewal of life. As such, they can make excellent gifts for people embarking on new phases of life or endeavoring in new projects, symbolizing prosperity and success in these new ventures.

Green is also a very calming color, indicating a sense of balance and stability. They are also often given to symbolize wishes for good health or a rich life.

Meaning Of Black Roses

Is there any meaning behind black roses? Black roses, like blue roses, are not found naturally. They are usually dark red roses that appear black or roses dyed black, and because of their color, they carry a range of profound and often dramatic meanings.

Black roses can symbolize the end of something, which could be a relationship, an idea or a career. So it’s often associated with death and mourning. However, it can also represent rebirth, signifying a major positive change or transformation in one’s life.

Moreover, black roses convey a sense of mystery, intrigue, and the unknown, adding a level of mystique to their symbolism. This can make them an interesting choice of gift for those who appreciate the unusual or enigmatic.

Finally, black roses can also represent a deep and passionate love that is as deep as the color of the rose itself. Much like red roses, they can symbolize an intense romantic love, but with a darker, more protective and possessive connotation.

Meaning Of Mixed Roses

What does receiving roses of mixed colors mean? A bouquet of roses with mixed colors can be used to convey a multitude of feelings. The combined symbolism of different colored roses can help to convey complex emotions or deepen the sentiment behind a gift. Here are some examples:

A mix of red and white roses is often used to symbolize unity, making them a popular choice for weddings. Here, the pure love symbolized by the red roses merges with the innocence and purity symbolized by the white roses to create a powerful message of united love and shared bonds.

On the other hand, a combination of yellow and orange roses could communicate a message of strong friendship and mutual respect, with the warm feelings of friendship symbolized by the yellow roses blending with the passionate enthusiasm symbolized by the orange roses. This combination could be an excellent choice for a close friend or for a relationship that is transitioning from friendship to romance.

Giving a bouquet of pink and lavender roses could send a message of love at first sight and admiration, combining the grace and admiration conveyed by pink roses with the enchantment and love at first sight denoted by lavender roses.

These are some of the common interpretations of the different rose colors. Remember that personal associations and cultural influences can alter the interpretation of colors, so do consider the context and the recipient’s personal preferences when choosing rose colors.

The post The Different Rose Colors & Their Meaning first appeared on Sara Verdier.

You might have heard of them or even seen them. Forever roses are increasingly popular gifts for special occasions such as Valentine’s Day, weddings, anniversaries and Mother’s Day.

Many flower products being sold online and in physical retail stores carry the name of forever roses, eternal roses, eternity roses, the forever rose, etc. You get the idea.

But all these roses are not made equal. Forever roses come in many different forms and are created using different techniques. If you are looking to buy a forever rose, we hope that through this article, you will learn more about the different types of forever roses and which forever rose is the most suitable for you.

 

What Is A Forever Rose?

Forever roses are roses that have been preserved using different techniques to last much longer than its natural lifespan. Some lasts 1 to 3 years while others can last for many years longer.

While we mention that they are many different kinds of forever roses, we can broadly categorise current forever roses or eternity roses into 2 categories:

1) Forever roses that look like normal roses

2) Forever roses that are plated with 24K gold and also known as gold-dipped roses. Such roses can also be plated with silver.

 

 

How Long Does A Forever Rose Last?

So do forever roses actually last forever? Well, the answer is, it depends. For forever roses that look like normal roses, many retailers are saying that it can last for up to 3 years with 1 year being their “display life”. This means that such forever roses will start to deteriorate after around 1 year and wither. Hardly forever wouldn’t you say?

The lifespan of these forever roses are also dependent on how you take care of them. Exposure to sunlight and humidity will result in the roses deteriorating earlier. To decrease humidity and other environmental factors for shortening their lifespan, you will find that some forever roses are kept in a sealed case or dome.

Regardless, forever roses still last much longer than normal roses. Though it is significantly more pricey as well.

Forever roses that are known as gold-dipped roses on the other hand can actually claim to last forever, technically. Because of the way theses roses are preserved and made, they will stay the same for many years so it is really hard to say for sure how long they will actually last.

 

 

What Much Does A Forever Rose Cost?

For forever roses that look like normal roses, it costs around $40 to $60 (in United States dollars) for a single rose. You will be able to find cheaper ones for sure but those are likely to be smaller roses and have a short lifespan due to the preservation technique used. Its short lifespan as compared to gold-dipped roses also naturally contribute to the high prices.

For a single gold-dipped forever rose, average ones go for at least $60 with some even going for as high as $200 and above. There is definitely much more craftsmanship involved when creating a gold-dipped rose, not to mention the 24K gold that is used to give it its gold-plated luxurious finish.

 

 

Are Forever Roses Real?

The short answer is yes, forever roses are basically preserved real roses. However as you have learnt from this article, not all forever roses last forever. Forever roses that have been preserved to look like normal roses only last 1 to 3 years at most.

This is actually a popular question and we are not surprised. A rose that lasts forever does sound incredible. Many people think that forever roses are actually not real roses but artificial ones and we don’t blame them. There are a number of unscrupulous sellers trying to pass off artificial roses as real roses.

For this article, we are only looking at forever roses that are real roses which is what we assume is what most people will be interested in. If you want to learn more about spotting fake forever roses, read our article on how to choose gold dipped roses.

 

 

How Are Forever Roses Made?

Without a doubt, to retain the alluring appearance of a rose beyond its natural lifespan means preserving the rose in one way or another. It is similar to mummification but less scary. Roses go through a dehydration process and its sap is slowly replaced with a preservative solution. This allows roses to retain their natural shape, color and appearance for a lengthen period of time.

For gold-dipped roses, the process is much more elaborate. The leaves and petals of each preserved rose is then encased in a resin hard-shell. This transparent shell is corrosion-resistant, further protecting the rose from the environment. To give the roses their exquisite look, they are then carefully plated with 24K gold or silver.

We won’t go into too much details as each company has their own process of creating their forever roses.

 

 

Which Forever Rose Should I Get?

Honestly, it comes down to personal preference. If your significant other prefers natural roses, then forever roses that look like actual roses are your best bet. But the issue is also just that. They look like normal roses, even if you are paying significantly more for them. There’s no wow factor in giving this type of forever roses or eternity roses.

Gold-dipped roses on the other hand are gaining in popularity due to their luxurious appearance and the great craftsmanship that comes with the more expensive roses. They are also more true to the forever rose description. While gold-dipped roses do have its strong points, your other half might prefer receiving natural roses to gold-dipped roses and you should take this into strong consideration.

 

 

The post Everything You Need To Know About Forever Roses first appeared on Sara Verdier.

Are you planning to buy flowers for your better half for Valentine’s Day, your anniversary or a special occasion? It can be a simple thing to do if you know what flowers your other half likes. Or you can just get roses. But if you are reading this article, then you might be looking for something different for a change. We are here to help!

First of all, ask yourself what does your significant other like about flowers? Do they think flowers look pretty and put them on display in a vase?  Vibrant and colorful flowers like carnations are a great choice then. Or if they like to go up close to take a whiff for their amazing smell. Then go for fragrant flowers like roses or peonies.

Many flowers also come with special meanings and it is important to pay attention to this especially if it matters to your other half.

 

 

1. Roses

We know what you are thinking! But this is a list of best flowers to get for Valentine’s Day and anniversaries and it won’t be a proper list without mentioning roses.

Long associated with romance and passion, roses are by far the most popular flowers people get on Valentine’s Day. Romantic, meaningful, beautiful to look at and not to mention, they smell great too. Roses are a clear winner. We recommend going with red or pink roses. Red roses being the traditional symbol of love and pink roses symbolising grace and elegance. Both colours are perfect as a romantic gesture.

If your significant other love roses but you want to do something different, consider Rose by Sara Verdier. Using real roses which have been perfectly preserved to last forever, it is then dipped in 24K gold to create a most exquisite gift. Considering the cost of buying flowers on Valentine’s Day, why not give a forever rose for forever love?

 

 

2. Orchids

A more exotic gift, orchids are known to represent luxury. There is a long history of people fervently searching for rare species of orchids which resulted in Orchidelirium in Victorian era England when collecting and discovering orchids reached extraordinary extremes. Even today, trading of orchids that are grown in the wild is banned internationally and many orchid species are still endangered.

It is no wonder orchids are associated with luxury.

But did you know that orchids can also represent love? During the Victorian era, men were known to give rare orchids to women as gifts to show their love. In China, orchids represents the unity between a married couple as well as symbolising luck and prosperity.

Orchids come in a wide variety of colours and each colour does hold its own meaning.

Blue – Blue orchids are very rare which makes them naturally associated with rarity.

Yellow – Friendship and new beginnings.

White – Beauty, purity and elegance.

Purple – Royalty, admiration and respect.

Pink – Love, happiness and grace. Pink orchids are also known to be wedding anniversary gifts.

Orange – Boldness, enthusiasm and pride.

We recommend orchids in white and/or pink hues for their symbolism and their elegant look.

 

 

3. Sunflowers

While not a flower that is commonly associated with romance, sunflowers are still one of the most popular flowers that people choose after roses. True to its sun-like appearance, sunflowers symbolises the sun, happiness, longevity and adoration. That’s pretty meaningful too for a gift to your loved one!

Visually attractive and imposing, giving sunflowers to your other half is bound to light up their day.

 

 

4. Tulips

Many people are fans of the simple and understated look of the tulips, making them yet another popular choice for Valentine’s Day and anniversaries. They also come in a very wide variety of colours. This means you will have a much easier time finding a tulip in the color that your other half likes. Though like most flowers, red symbolises love and would be the more traditional choice for Valentine’s Day.

Apart from the vibrant color choices, tulips are also popular due to their relative affordability and longevity. They last longer than many other flowers when put in a vase. This is also another factor you might want to consider when choosing your perfect Valentine’s Day flower.

Red and pink tulips are popular romantic gifts but do note that tulips have different bloom time. Different tulips are available in different seasons so if you want the freshest tulips, check with your local florist first.

 

 

5. Carnations

Popular at weddings and as a romantic gift, carnations are fragrant, pretty to look at and is a long lasting cut flower. They will stay fresh for days and can last up to three weeks. What’s more, carnations are also comparatively affordable meaning you get really great value for the money spent. It’s no wonder they are a popular choice.

We recommend red and white carnations to give to your significant other on Valentine’s Day and anniversaries.

 

 

6. Ranunculus

With a name that sounds like something out of Harry Potter, the ranunculus is definitely eye-catching. Which is why it is one of the most popular flowers found at weddings. However, it is known to be a more luxurious flower. While the price per stem seems reasonable, ranunculus are smaller when blooming and you will need much more ranunculus to achieve the same full look as other flowers such as roses.

Symbolising attractiveness, charm and radiance, you can’t go wrong with ranunculus.

 

 

7. Never Wither Flowers

Also on the list is Sara Verdier’s very own Never Wither Flowers.  Perfectly preserving flowers to last forever, they are great gifts for people who prefer something more long lasting and permanent. Never Wither Flowers aren’t exactly a type of flowers but rather a collection of different flowers than include the dandelion, hydrangea and chrysanthemum.

 

The post Best Flowers For Valentine’s Day & Anniversaries first appeared on Sara Verdier.

A red rose is a universal symbol for expressing your love and a rose that lasts forever is certainly enticing!

Find out how to identify real gold-dipped roses. Learn about the different types of gold-dipped roses and what price you should be paying for them. We will be exploring these and more in this article.

You might have seen them being sold online or in retail stores especially when Valentine’s Day is around the corner. So what are gold-dipped roses exactly?

Gold-trimmed or gold-dipped roses are real roses that have been preserved and then plated with 24 karat gold. They are also commonly known as 24K gold rose, roses dipped in gold or gold-plated roses among other names.

A popular question is whether gold-dipped roses last forever? If the roses have been preserved properly, then yes, they do last forever! Though do note that the petals of gold-dipped roses that retain its original colors might fade and deteriorate over time.

Instead of gold, preserved roses can also be plated with silver and these are known as silver-trimmed or silver-dipped roses.

 

Identifying Real Gold-Dipped Roses

Now you might be curious, are gold-dipped roses really made from real natural roses? And how does one tell the difference anyway? An easy way to tell is actually the price. Really!

When it’s too cheap to be true, it usually isn’t true. Especially when something is handcrafted and takes a long time to be made.

Products claiming to be gold-dipped roses go for as low as $10 (USD) or as high as many hundreds of dollars. And we can honestly tell you, any product that is below $70 is likely an imitation or fake rose.

Properly preserving a real rose and turning it into a true gold-dipped rose isn’t that simple. Each rose has to be individually handcrafted and the skill of the artisan will affect the level of workmanship. A good quality preserved rose is definitely not cheap.

There are a few types of gold-dipped roses to choose from and we will take a look at each of them.

Real Gold-Dipped Roses From Sara Verdier

Open Bloom Gold-Dipped Roses

 

This type of gold-dipped roses are supposed to look like roses in bloom. Gold-dipped open bloom roses may look pretty but all of such roses are actually fake or imitation roses. They don’t actually look like real blooming roses too. Check out some examples right below.

You will notice that all the open bloom roses sold by the same seller will look almost exactly the same which is a clear sign they are not real roses.

The rose head and petals will look very neat, usually symmetrical and are all the same size and shape. And that’s certainly unnatural. Compare them to real blooming roses in the photo above.

 

Also note how there are only 3 or 4 petals (depending on the seller) per layer in each rose.

If you see such gold-dipped “roses” selling at $20, then they aren’t roses at all. Look at the petals more closely, the veins on the petals are actually painted or printed on!

 

However, there are some open bloom gold-dipped roses that do use real rose petals and parts. The sellers will also claim they are real roses. To be accurate, these are actually imitation roses.

These roses are created by taking individual rose petals from numerous roses and assembling them into a shape of a rose. So you are not actually getting a single preserved rose but rather preserved rose petals in the shape of a rose. Such roses usually go for around $50 to $70.

You might wonder why don’t companies preserve a single real blooming rose in its entirety? That is because it’s extremely difficult. The petals are very delicate and lack support when a rose is blooming. Look at the real blooming red roses above.

Can you imagine coating each individual petal with a transparent resin hard shell and making sure the petals aren’t deformed in any way during the whole process. The effort and workmanship would be tremendous.

Our recommendation. If you are looking for an authentic gold-dipped rose, then these open-bloom ones are not what you are looking for. However, if you like the look of these roses and don’t mind the fact that they are fake or imitation roses, then by all means, purchase the open-bloom gold-dipped rose.

In the end, what matters most is whether you or the person receiving the rose like and appreciate it. And it’s easier on the wallet too!

Gold-foil Roses

 

These are the cheapest ones out there going for around $10. The “rose” petals and leaves are made from gold foil, gold-colored tin and/or plastic. These fake roses look very flimsy and delicate. And they don’t even look like roses ?

Our recommendation. We frankly don’t recommend getting these gold-foil roses. They actually aren’t gold-dipped roses at all but some unscrupulous sellers do try and pass them off as one.

Please do not pay more than $15 for this. Gold-foil roses are completely artificial and in our opinion, look its price as well. We do see its appeal to some people as certain gold-foil roses can look attractive in photos.

So if you are looking for something cheap and simple, the gold-foil rose could be an option.

 

Budding Gold-Dipped Roses

 

Budding roses refer to roses that have not bloomed or are beginning to bloom. Authentic budding gold-dipped roses involve preserving the entire rose head of a budding rose.

How can you tell they are real roses? Every single budding gold-dipped rose looks different from the other. Like real roses, each of these gold-dipped roses is one-of-a-kind and truly unique.

There are a mix of real and fake versions of this type of roses. Fake gold-dipped budding roses, like the open-bloom ones, should all look almost the same if sold by the same seller. A fake fully gold-plated budding rose actually has a plastic inside.

On average, real fully gold-plated budding roses are sold for around $130 to $150. Higher quality budding roses that are completely gold-plated should go for above $200.

Why so expensive? Properly crafting an authentic gold-dipped rose is like crafting an expensive piece of jewelry, good workmanship is hard to find and requires years of experience.

Budding roses with transparent resin shells that allow you to see the actual rose petals and leaves like those from Sara Verdier go for around $90 to $130.

The price of the gold-dipped rose is generally a good indicator of the workmanship though beware of unscrupulous sellers! Poor quality ones might be sold at a high price but good quality gold-dipped roses will never be sold at a low price.

You might be able to get real budding gold-dipped roses for less than $80 but we would actually be doubtful of the quality.

It’s actually difficult to ensure the quality of each and every single rose since each rose is unique. And to be frank, if you buy a budding rose that is less than $80, the quality of the rose you receive will depend on your luck.

 

Our recommendation. A budding gold-dipped rose is honestly the most authentic gold-dipped rose you can get at the moment.

Compare the photos of the gold-dipped budding rose and an actual real budding rose above. They do look very similar, especially considering the fact that the gold-dipped version has gone through the preservation and gold-plating process.

The truth is that to preserve a single budding rose head in its entirety and then turn it into a gold-dipped rose takes considerable effort and time. Especially when you want to do it well. Not to mention the whole process is done by an actual human being.

So do take time to think if the price you are paying makes sense for a good quality gold-dipped rose. Remember that well-crafted watches and jewelry cost hundreds of dollars!

Click to browse the gold-dipped roses from Sara Verdier

The post How to Choose The Best Gold-Dipped Roses first appeared on Sara Verdier.

A gold-dipped rose is also known as a gold-trimmed rose or gold-plated rose. It sounds exquisite but what exactly does a gold-dipped rose refer to? To put it simply, it’s literally a rose dipped in gold. To be precise, a real rose is preserved and then plated with gold, hence why it is also known as a gold-plated rose.

Why do we call it the most romantic gift in the world? Roses are widely considered a universal gift for expressing romantic love. Giving the gift of a gold plated rose would be at once a lovely surprise, and an act of rebellion because the golden rose cheats death by transforming ephemeral magnificence into immortal beauty. And not unlike love itself, a high-quality gold-dipped rose can last a lifetime and beyond.

Here we will first explore the romantic properties of roses and the allure of gold. And then take a look at how the fusion of the two is a most romantic combination.

The Rose

One of the most enduring and famous symbol of love, the rose has appeared in works of art from paintings to films for centuries as a representation of romance, beauty and love. William Shakespeare, the famous playwright once wrote “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet”.

Even since ancient times, roses were associated with the Greek and Roman goddess of love, Aphrodite and Venus, respectively. Story has it that rose bushes grew from the tears shed by Aphrodite and the blood of Adonis, her lover.

It is now an almost universal symbol of love, given to loved ones on Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, anniversaries and other important events when love or passion is being celebrated.

Like how people during the Victorian era use flowers as a way to communicate unspoken feelings, the rose is perfect for conveying your love.

The Gold

It’s no secret that gold is highly desirable. It is known as a precious metal and it is very expensive. Gold is a status symbol and it symbolizes wealth, luxury and exquisiteness.

Pure gold or 24K gold doesn’t rust and doesn’t tarnish. Gold-dipped or gold-plated roses are usually plated with 24K gold making them great as a display piece to remind your significant other of your love.

Gold is, well, golden. It is actually difficult to tell one rare earth metal from another. Gold is the only metal that looks and reflects light the way it does making it easily identifiable and uniquely irresistible.

The Golden Rose

So what happens when the allure of gold meets the romance of a rose?

When plated in gold, the details of roses are enriched, preserved, and glamorized. The perfect stage of petals opening is forever frozen in time and the life-giving veins are enhanced.

The craftsmanship involved in the painstaking process of plating a rose can be appreciated and contemplated as an intersection of art and science. Many steps are required and it can take weeks to produce a finished creation.

Golden roses stay forever fresh. The absence of drooping or discoloration can be a metaphor for the everlasting love between giver and recipient.

Nothing shines like a 24K gold-dipped rose. The constant luster can be a centerpiece which brings up an entire room.

Gold plated thorns offer us yet another metaphor. Just as the thorns of a rose discourage herbivores, strong love shields a relationship from those who would do the union harm.

A Forever Rose For Forever Love

There you have it, a plethora of reasons why a gold dipped rose is the most romantic gift. Communicate the magnificence, power, grace, and permanence of your love by immortalizing the queen of flowers, the rose, in the world’s most beautiful metal.

Check out Rose by Sara Verdier, an exquisite gold-dipped rose that’s bound to wow the love of your life.

Or learn more about choosing the best gold-dipped roses through this comprehensive article.

The post Why A Gold Dipped Rose Is The Most Romantic Gift first appeared on Sara Verdier.

A forever rose is a powerful imagery. The rose is the universal symbol of love and a forever rose naturally signify forever love. It is no surprise that so many of us are seeking for that perfect rose that lasts forever to give to the person we love.

There are many gifts that you can buy online or at retail stores which are advertised as forever roses. Some of these are real roses while others are just ornaments in the shape of roses. Some last longer than others but only a few last forever.

Let’s take a look at the different forever roses you can buy for your loved one!

 

Forever Roses That Are Man-made

 

Artificial forever roses which are not made using real roses are mostly made from gold foil, gold colored tin or plastic. These roses are generally cheap, costing below $50 since they are not real roses and are mass-produced. Not to mention gold foil roses don’t exactly look like real roses to be frank.

Do be careful if you are considering buying such roses. Dishonest retailers will advertise their roses as real natural roses. For gold-plated roses, it can be quite difficult to tell if they are real since they are completely plated with gold. But instead of encasing a real rose, fake gold-plated roses actually has a plastic body.

 

Forever Roses That Are Natural Roses

Forever roses that are actual real roses are preserved in one way or another. The most common of this consist of spraying a special chemical over a natural rose. Such roses will not wilt and can last for a few years.

A good quality forever rose that is preserved in such a way costs around $100 to $200. Definitely much more pricey than your typical rose. The great thing about it? It looks just like an ordinary natural rose. The bad thing about it? It looks just like an ordinary natural rose.

I would probably be right if I say that we all want to give the person we love most in the world something more special than just an ordinary rose. Perhaps something magical like the enchanted rose in Beauty And The Beast that leaves you breathless from its beauty.

 

The True Forever Rose

Introducing Rose by Sara Verdier,  100% real roses that are individually preserved by hand in a protective shell and plated with real 24K gold. Unlike the real roses mentioned earlier, a Rose by Sara Verdier is a true forever rose.

It will truly never wither or fade and will last forever. A Rose by Sara Verdier undergoes a long process called “Protect & Beautify” and the end result is a tribute to both the natural beauty of a real rose and the exquisite craftsmanship of fine jewelry.

A Rose by Sara Verdier is also reasonably priced for a 100% real rose that has been exquisitely preserved to last forever and plated with 24K gold or silver. Want to express your forever love to the person you love? Look no further for a true forever rose for forever love. Find out more about Rose by Sara Verdier.

The post What Are The Different Forever Roses? first appeared on Sara Verdier.

Nothing says I love you more than red roses. With their elegance and beauty, a single rose or an entire bouquet is perfect for expressing your feelings to the person you love. However, not all roses are created equal and some type of roses are more visually attractive that others.

If you are thinking about using roses for an upcoming occasion or just to plant in your garden, here are some types of roses that you may want to consider for their exquisite beauty.

 

1. The Victor Hugo Rose

When you think roses, this is probably what you picture in your mind. The Victor Hugo rose is part of the oldest group of modern garden roses known as the hybrid tea rose.

The Victor Hugo rose is characterized by its deep red color and it blooms from Spring through Fall. It also has a nice strong scent to it and a single large bloom will have over 25 petals, making it the perfect choice if you want to get extra romantic and hand her just one stem.

 

2. The Winchester Cathedral Rose

This repeat bloom is characterized by its crisp white petals. It’s a medium-sized rose that opens just over 2″ from edge to edge, containing over 80 petals.

The strong fragrance and elegant beauty make this a beautiful flower for just about any occasion. A great way to move away from the “classic red rose” and into something a bit more unique and sophisticated.

 

 

3. The Michelangelo Rose

The Michelangelo rose is characterized by bright petals that come in a creamy shade of butter yellow. This rose gives off an excellent, old-fashioned flair thanks not only to its color palette but also to its huge size.

Opening about 5 inches from edge to edge, the Michelangelo rose contains over 40 large petals. The lemony fragrance pairs perfectly with the deep color that works in spring, summer or fall. It’s favored in bouquets thanks to its aroma.

 

4. The Gold Medal Rose

Brilliant and bold, this rose features dazzling petals that are large and dark gold in color. Each bloom consists of about 30 petals and mild temperatures really bring out the rich color. It’s a great garden rose simply because its strong fragrance brings a fruity scent anywhere it grows.

This is also a thornless plant that is very upright and bushy, it requires full exposure to the sun and blooms from Spring through Summer with the buds dying off a bit sooner than other roses that typically grow through the fall.

 

5. The Black Baccara Rose

This big and beautiful bloom comes in a deep, sophisticated, and mysterious velvety black. The blooms open up about 4 inches from edge to edge with around 45 petals bringing out the romantic side of this display.

It also blooms from spring through fall, like most varieties of roses, and it’s relatively easy to grow given that it’s placed in well-draining soil.

 

6. Rose By Sara Verdier

 

 

Unlike the other roses on this list, a Rose by Sara Verdier is actually a 100% real rose that has been preserved to last forever. Combining the natural beauty of a real rose and the exquisiteness of fine jewelry, it’s a strong contender for the most beautiful rose in the world. And the best part is? Since it will never wither, you get to enjoy its beauty for as long as you want. Find out more about Rose by Sara Verdier here.

The post The 6 Most Beautiful Roses In The World first appeared on Sara Verdier.