When you put on your jewelry in the morning before you head out, do you ever wonder how jewelry came to be and why it became so important in our society? There is a rich history behind jewelry and how it was and is being perceived in our world today, whether it be culturally, for self-expression or purely for fashion.
Let’s dive into the history of jewelry and see how it became an impactful part of our society over the years.
Prehistoric discovery of jewelry
The earliest known jewelry was cre
ated and worn by Neanderthals in Europe, dating as far back as 115,000 years ago. These jewelries were made from bones, shells, coloured pebbles and feathers. They were mainly used as a form of protection, luck or as way of showing rank or status. Later on, necklaces and bracelets would be made from teeth, berries and stone which would be hung from string, pieces of carved bone or animal sinew. Some of these jewelries would also be made of shells or mother of pearl pieces.
In the early Mediterranean (3000- 400 BC), jewelry would also be offered to the Gods and used to dress up statues. Later on, tombs of mummies decorated in various form of jewelry would be discovered.
In early days, jewelry would also be worn for its “magical” and symbolic properties. They would be worn as amulets which would act as protection from bad luck, evil or illness, as well as to improve certain areas of someone’s life. Even today, gemstones in jewelry have certain symbolic meaning to them and are worn as a form of protection or enhancement.
Jewelry in Medieval times (1200-1500)
Overtime, as the ancient world discovered metal working techniques and how to cut gems, jewelry started to become more intricate, decorative and detailed. Some of the jewelry we know and love today, actually started out as regular functional objects. For example, rings and pendants were used for seals and signs of identification or rank.
Jewelry worn in the medieval times showed peoples rank and status. Jewelry made from gold, silver and precious gems would be worn by the Royal and noble. Those that ranked lower would wear jewelry made from copper or pewter.
Until the 14th century, gems were just polished and not cut. The size and colour of the gemstone would signify its value.
Ancient Egypt
The ancient Egyptians also wore amulets and talismans for protection. They also made bracelets of multiple colour gemstones, which are commonly worn today as well.
They also wore jewelry to show their status. The royal would wear gold and silver and gemstones such as turquoise, chalcedony, amethyst or lapis lazuli. They also place a high importance to colour in jewelry, as certain colours represent personalities. For example; yellow represented the sun and was used in crowns and ornaments.
Ancient Greece
Ancient Greek jewelry consisted of crowns, earring, hairpins, bracelets, and broches. Women would also wear necklaces consisting of 75 or more tiny dangling vases. They loved combining gemstones with gold.
Ancient Rome
During the roman era, most of the gemstones had already be discovered, and they highly respected these gemstones. An interesting fact is that roman women would wear hairpins which were long enough to be used as self-defense. Bracelet would also be worn on the wrists and upper arms, and necklaces also became popular. Jewelry made from gold coins also became popular in ancient Rome.
Asia
The Indian subcontinent has the longest and continuous legacy of jewelry making, as they have made a large number of jewelry for the royals for over 5000 years. China also started making jewelry around this period but it later became popular during the widespread of Buddhism.
The Chinese used silver in their jewelry more than gold and later incorporated blue gems and glass. However later on, Jade was much preferred.
India was also the first country to mine diamonds (dating as far back as 296 BC). After realizing how popular they are, they began trading these diamonds.
Although there is much more into the history of jewelry and its purposes all around the world, let this brief history remind you of where jewelry started and how it came to be.
Next time you wear your jewelry, what historic moment would you be reminded of?