The Evolution of Jewellery Within Human Culture
Diamond Jewellery has a place in all cultures as a form of adornment and expression. Although today’s jewellery wearing is a lot more free-spirited than preceding cultures, jewellery has always been a form of self-expression throughout history. On the surface, jewellery has had staying power, transcending cultures, races, nationalities and diversity. That is because quite simply, jewellery is beautiful to look at and fun to wear.
Delve a little deeper and jewellery is also used as a status symbol, even by today’s standards. Those who have more money tend to wear flashier and more costly jewellery. But it’s also a symbol of our most sincere emotions. Even inexpensive jewellery can hold immense sentimental value, although jewels with high monetary value have a certain aura to them, as well.
How long has jewellery been a part of humanity?
Jewellery has been around about as long as humans themselves. It started out primitively, as one would expect, and has continuously evolved. Some of the first jewellery of historical record was simply shells strung along twine. Jewellery has also been used as currency and played a big role in religion by denoting status and membership.
The jewellery of Ancient Egypt is considered the predecessor to modern jewellery. Ancient Egyptians even used jewellery making as a profession by combining artistic skills with a variety of materials. Bold colours were the most important aspect of early jewellery making. And even though diamonds were available, they were often unused because they were white.
The Greeks and Romans used jewellery for trading, therefore styles and designs varied. Techniques began to evolve quickly during this time period and earrings gained popularity as a result. By the Renaissance era, jewellery began to move away from its practical place within society to being worn for adornment, although jewellery was still used as currency. Diamonds started to pick up steam as a valuable gemstone within this time frame.
In the 17th century, floral designs and animals started to appear more often and the industrial revolution allowed jewellery manufacturing to advance. These days, jewellery is seen as a form of artistic expression more than ever. Innovations in technology have allowed for an array of techniques – using both genuine and synthetic materials.
The popularity influx of specific jewellery items and materials
Specific pieces of jewellery have also evolved. The first earrings were hoops and pendant earrings; as discovered by archaeologists dating back to 2500 B.C. Iraq. Earrings saw continued popularity through the ages; except during the Middle Ages when elaborate hairstyles took center stage. Designers have been able to take more and more artistic liberties with their creations as technology has advanced.
Beads were the primary materials used in early necklaces and that led to the use of pendants. Eventually, when beads could no longer satisfy the tastes of the wealthy, gold collars became the hot item. This was particularly true in Ancient Egypt, along with elaborate pendants. In the second century, gold piercing techniques allowed for the creation of gold chains. Eventually the necklace lost its luster, but made a comeback during the 14th century.
Bracelets for men and women have always been fashionable and functional. Leather bracelets served as protection for the men of Ancient Rome in battle. Until metals were used to make bracelets; wood, bones, stones and earthen resources served as the primary materials.
Cuff links have been around for more than 800 years and have always been the mark of high fashion and elegance for men. Reserved for Royals and the wealthy in their early existence, cuff links became more commonplace over time. However, cuff links are still generally worn for special occasions and important business meetings by today’s modern man.
The role of jewellery in society has changed dramatically over the years. We live in a time where the selection and quality of jewellery is the best it’s ever been. As trends in fashion change, jewellery will continue to have its place within modern society for every generation.