history of jewelry, the history of jewelry, history of costume jewelry, history of ireland jewelry
As with all other practices in our culture, jewelry has its roots and just like any other aspect, it has transformed as it made its way to the present day.
Earrings and other body rings are also considered as such but, there is a difference between these body accessories to body art. Items that are attached to a garment of your clothing, like buttons, are not considered jewelry. Belts and handbags, and items of similar nature are considered accessories, and not jewelry, even if these items are made of gems or precious stones.
The wearing of jewelry has always been associated with power, today and in the past. Leaders and chiefs of tribes showed their superiority over others using jewelry. These indicated the prestige and control of selected individuals.
It is thought that jewelry is actually one of the oldest forms of body adornment. This was proven from a recent find of beads made of Nassarius shell that is a hundred thousand year old and thought to be the oldest known jewelry.
Upon death of a pharaoh, servants would put jewelries in their graves because of the belief that they can take these during the afterlife. It is sad to note however, that grave thieves have stolen artifacts that could’ve been useful to many historians.
In line with this, jewelry is made to beautify almost any part of the body, this would range from hairpins to toe rings and a lot more. While the more expensive, and high-quality jewelry is made using gemstones and precious metals like silver or gold, there was also the use of precious stones. Even during the old times, art jewelry is considered more appreciated over material value.
Romans resembled the Greeks in their practice of wearing jewelry. They also did not wear them, except if there were celebrations. There were instances when they wore it in public to fend off evil spirits. Under the rule and influence of Romans, Britain would usually fashion jewelry from fossilized wood for the nobles on the island.
Even after the Empire of Rome was overthrown, production of jewelry still continued. Designs became more elaborate and attractive. The Celts had fondness for ornamental and extremely artistic jewelry that depicted religious symbols.
Seeing this history of what we currently use on ourselves, we just cant seem to think of how we are so much like our ancestors, yet quite different, dont you agree?
