Christmas Tree Ornament

Almost 500 years after the first Christmas tree was decorated, the tradition remains among many people's favorites. Gathering around the Christmas tree and unwrapping each ornament each year gives people a sense of continuity with their past, and a chance to slow down and cherish the little things in life. Over the years, Christmas tree ornaments have changed with the times, as well.The Germans are credited with starting the decorating tradition of Christmas trees possibly back as far as the early 1600s. For the next couple of hundred years the custom slowly spread around Europe, adopted by English royalty by 1841. The custom back then was to decorate trees primarily with edible goodies so one would have seen evergreens covered in chains of popcorn, raisins, nuts, marzipan, and even pretzels. By the 1800s, the edibles were being replaced by toys, bells, garlands, and candles, most created, again, in Germany. After the first World War, British and American companies picked up the Christmas spirit and began to manufacture a variety of glass ornaments, and eventually plastic ones on a mass scale. To some collectors, these early ornaments are treasures, and for many others, modern-made ornaments are just as important.Hallmark began its Keepsake series in 1973 and for some collectors, these are the only ornaments they need. Ornament websites often yield great deals on just that precise missing ornament in a collection, so the buying and selling remains fervent online. Whether they are part of your family's tradition, or you simply enjoy an historical look at antique pieces, Christmas tree ornaments provide an always rewarding collecting opportunity.