Jewelry is one of the best adornments to doll up one’s self. Sure, a girl’s make-up or a man’s hairstyle can make her or him look stunning, but nothing shines like jewelry. This piece of accessory is exceptionally flexible—whether you want to wear it minimal or wild. Either way, it will always bring out your best features, especially if you have discovered your own unique style.
Generally, jewelry is worn as a decoration in the hair or body and sometimes can even be used to fix clothing. It can also be a marker of personal and social status and indicates one’s power and affluence. Moreover, jewelry stands as a signifier of one’s affiliation, whether romantic or religious. Like any accessory, jewelry has different functions, and it’s really up to us to decide to wear it on a regular or occasional basis.
Let’s learn about the different types of jewellery while discovering its real purpose, meaning, and the benefits that it provides to the wearer. But first, let’s briefly revisit the history of jewelry timeline.
Ancient Jewelry History
From the timeline above, we can see that jewelry already existed as early as 100,000 B.C. Archaeologists found seashell beads in Morocco, which were probably used as amulets by our ancestors. Then came Egypt in 3,000 BC—the home of classic gold. The Egyptians popularized a jewelry design based on the scarab beetle and used precious gemstones, such as amethyst and turquoise in crafting them.
Another notable date in the history of jewellery was during 2,500 BC when the Greeks crafted great jewelry designs of animals and shells infused with gemstones, which strongly show their attachment to nature. Popular stones at that time included pearls, emeralds, and chalcedony.
Further, the Romans, in 500 BC, also got fond of animal and coiling snake designs. They mostly used seal rings, amulets, and brooches because at the time, only high officials and warriors wore jewelry. They also utilized precious gemstones, such as sapphires, pearls, emeralds, and diamonds.
Jewelry trade and barter began around 1500 AD, when the English royalties started fancying necklaces and earrings. Diamond jewelry became very popular during this time, and people developed a profound interest in jewelry fashion.
In the early 1900s, jewelry-making became more artistic and vibrant. Designers were already incorporating abstract and geometrical shapes and drew some inspiration from the Baroque art. People started wearing wristwatches until the time when hip-hop gave birth to large chains and medallions.
In ancient times, jewelry mainly functioned as a symbol of social status, wealth, and rank in society. It was also worn because of personal beliefs—that it brings good luck or protects people from evil and harm. Our ancestors have also attached their life experiences to jewelry and believed that certain phenomena occur because of the accessory they wore.
Types of Jewellery
As mentioned earlier, jewelry is worn for various reasons and specific occasions. People of all ages, genders, and races adorn themselves with jewelry based on their culture, personal beliefs, and needs. What are the types of jewellery? Let’s look at some of the trendy pieces.
Earrings
As the term suggests, earrings are worn on the earlobes. But millennials have found other uses for them, with many now wearing them on the eyebrows, nose, lips, belly buttons, etc. It is done either through piercing or by simply clipping the item. Earrings are made of different materials, such as gold, silver, steel, glass, and more. They are also crafted in different sizes and shapes like studs, hoops, and heavy danglings.
Necklace
This type of jewelry has been widely used even before historical times. Before, our ancestors wore them in the form of amulets for good luck and protection. But now, they are mostly worn for fashion and as a sign of someone’s affection. Necklaces are usually crafted from exclusive metals and precious stones and are even made lovelier with lockets, chains, and pendants.
Bracelets
A bracelet is definitely one of the sweetest and most meaningful gifts you can give to a person. In some traditions, babies are believed to be protected from harm and evil spirits when they wear a beaded bracelet, usually red and black in color. Bracelets can also be a sign of friendship and a man’s adoration of a woman. This type of accessory also comes in fun colors and variations—either a bangle or anklet.
Rings
There is a wide range of rings, but the ones that are worn on fingers are the most popular. Traditionally, people wore rings as a symbol of marital and social status, but they are typically worn now for fashion and fancy purposes. Rings are usually made from silver, gold, platinum, and other metals.
Cufflinks
These are jewellery pieces that are used explicitly for the cuffs of a shirt. They come in different materials, such as metals, stones, leather, glass, etc. Cufflinks can be an elegant gift to a boyfriend or husband, especially the powersuit types.
Did you know that each jewelry type holds different meanings and purposes? Read on to the next section to learn more.
Jewelry Culture and Symbolism
While jewelry often reflects one’s personality and style, they can also have a significant meaning, purpose, and symbolism. Sometimes, a jewelry piece holds sentimental value, such as in the case of an heirloom. Jewelry meaning and symbolism may vary around the world or from the materials used in creating one. What does jewelry mean to you? Explore below to have a better understanding of your precious collections.
Jewelry Symbols and Meaning
- Jade. This precious stone often represents the Yin-Yang balance. It is thought to prevent bad luck and provide protection from illness and evil spirits. Chinese families widely use jade jewelry, mostly in bracelets, and pass this adornment through generations. Jade jewelry is also used in funeral proceedings because it is believed to connect heaven and earth.
- Turquoise. This jewelry material traditionally represents wealth, opulence, and positivity. Different cultures have various reasons for wearing this accessory. Greeks, for example, associate turquoise with purity, while ancient Persians see it as a symbol of heaven. Moreover, Tibetans believe that it represents life and death, while the Navajo tribes simply see turquoise as a sign of happiness, health, and connection with nature.
- Beads. Some people use beaded jewelry as status symbol, while others use it merely for adornment. Africans utilize beads for trading, while Greeks see it more as a religious symbol. Beaded jewelry is still prevalent in modern fashion, yet it portrays different meanings across countries.
- Star of David. This symbol is strongly associated with Judaism. The star of David features two triangles that form a six-point star and often comes in the form of pendants. It represents the Jewish people’s solidarity towards their religion and is also believed to bring good luck.
- Crosses. A sign of the Christian faith. People wear it to remind themselves that they are redeemed from evil and temptation and declare their faith.
- Arrows. This symbol represents love and protection. It’s also a reminder that one can always move forward.
- Doves. Religiously speaking, a dove symbolizes the Holy Ghost. It also represents fidelity, love, peace, and devotion.
- Key. A symbol of love or the key to one’s heart. It also represents authority and power.
- Butterfly. The perfect symbol for elegance, beauty, and joy. It also symbolizes hope and long life.
- Evil Eye. This adornment existed even in ancient times. It is believed to protect the wearer from harm and danger.
Jewelry Roles and Purposes
What is the purpose of jewelry? The may differ depending on the wearer, but below are the conventional roles and purposes of jewelry.
- Status Symbol. Wealthier people often wear more valuable jewelry and usually prefer designs from top brands like Tiffany and Cartier. In contrast, those who belong to the middle and lower class have lesser and cheaper jewelry pieces.
- Affluence. Expensive jewelry offers wearers a source of wealth security as it can be a form of investment, especially royal jewelry pieces.
- Relationships. Engagement rings and wedding bands are perfect examples of pieces that offer this functionality. You can show your affection to a person or loved one by giving them fine jewelry.
- Self Expression. The pervasive and typical purpose of jewelry for all genders and races is self-expression. It is often associated with one’s unique personality, creative style, and a public figure’s brand.
- Religion. Almost all jewelry pieces are attached to religious beliefs. It can be a symbol of one’s faith or worn during religious events and ceremonies, such as weddings, baptisms, and first communions.
- Currency. At specific historical periods, jewelry served as a tool in barter and trading. Africans, for example, used beads in exchange for goods and crops. Today, valuable jewelry can still be used as a form of currency.
- Protection. This is also common in ancient times. People in the early days wore jewelry to drive away bad luck and evil spirits. Noblemen also adorned themselves with large and heavy jewelry to protect themselves during battles.
- Heirloom. Jewelry may also bear a sentimental value like a remembrance from your deposed spouse or a necklace passed down from your grandmother. It helps you cherish past connections and beautiful memories.
- Fashion Accent. You can always choose to make a unique and bold fashion statement. Most people go mixy-matchy with their outfit, make-up, and special events through fashionable jewelry accents.
It’s quite fascinating to know the different meanings and purposes of jewelry. It helps us view our collections from a more in-depth perspective and use them more appropriately. What are the benefits of wearing jewelry? Check the next section to find out.
Benefits of Wearing Jewelry
Ancient and modern cultures alike believe jewelry has healing powers and beneficial aspects. For example, turquoise jewelry is perceived to improve one’s overall well-being, clears our minds of negative thoughts, and heals any unwanted emotions. Silver and gold are also proven to boost immunity and reduce stress and anxiety.
Further, research shows that jade jewelry recharge energy when stroked and beads act as a stress reliever or aid in meditation. Other metals like copper and platinum also help regulate body functions and circulation, while gemstones have a relaxing effect when worn. It is truly incredible to know that jewelry does not only bear cultural and historical significance but also provides wellness. All these health benefits make this adornment even more attractive and valuable.
Find the right piece for you
Jewelry are such precious items to acquire. Aside from the fact that they make you attractive or stand out, they also have vital functionalities. When buying jewelry, it is essential to lay down the reasons why you want a specific symbol or design, and know how a particular accessory can affect you spiritually, physically, or emotionally.
Read our “Ultimate Guide for Buying Jewelry for Yourself” to help you get started with the right adornment.
