The Usage Methods of Jewels in History
Why, How, What Jewelry Has Been Used in History
Brooches, rings, necklaces, earrings, pendants, bracelets, and cufflinks are samples of ornamental objects worn for beautification. Jewelry can be worn on the body as well as on the apparel. Metals such as gold, which is often combined with gemstones, have been the common choice for jewelry for many generations, but other materials such as shells and other plant materials can also be utilized.
Jewelry might well be created out of a variety of materials. Gemstones and related materials such as amber and coral, valuable metals, pearls, and shells have all been utilized extensively, with enamel playing a significant role. In most civilizations, jewelry is regarded as a symbol of wealth because of its material characteristics, designs, or symbolic meanings. At the beginning of history, people had eaten food, survived natural disasters and they used valued stones to survive evil spirits. Gemstones were looking like they are not from this world due to their shapes, sizes, colors, and shines.
Jewelry has a long and illustrious history, with numerous cultural applications. It has been around for thousands of years, and it gave important clues about how past societies functioned.
Jewelry was used as a charm in ancient civilizations to ward off bad luck and disease. In the legends of Frodo’s journey through Middle Earth, the elfin princess’s silver vest shielded him from danger. Even at present, we hear tales and experiences of people who, through the use of gemstones and jewelry, gained luck and riches. Jewelry shaped into emblems believed to grant the user control over reproduction, prosperity, and romance is derived from all these mythologies. The mystical qualities of jewelry were worn.
Jewelry later came to denote human connection and commitment. Cultural norms have also had a considerable impact. In the early 20th century, for instance, wearing earrings by European males was considered feminine. Body jewelry, such as piercings, has recently become a sign of acceptability or a badge of courage among some groups while being utterly shunned by others. Similarly, hip-hop culture popularized the slang phrase bling-bling, which refers to a man or woman’s extravagant display of jewels.
The Crusades were the first serious trade between East and West in ages, and they opened up a whole new world of commerce and communications. It made new items and ideas available to Europeans. During the Middle Ages, commoners were looked upon for wearing jewelry or imitating the royal family’s clothing or mannerisms. This was seen by the nobles as a unique opportunity available exclusively to them. Sumptuary Laws were enacted to enforce this concept. By limiting what individuals may wear, such regulations were intended to reduce luxury and encourage the economy. Wearing rings had a specific symbolism and function. There were four primary goals or categories:
- Clergy and laity use ecclesiastical rings as holy symbols.
- Curative rings are a type of jewelry that is used to treat a variety of illnesses and disorders.
- Because of its proximity to the heart, the wedding ring is placed on the left second finger.
- Brass knuckles, compass rings, and pipe stuffers are just a few of the gadget rings available.
Slaves were made to wear bracelets to show who they belonged to. Wedding rings symbolized the commitment two people had for each other. At one time in Europe, only the wealthy and high-ranking church officials were allowed to wear gemstones. This was a sign of wealth and power. In the Ottoman Empire, Magnificent Suleyman wore a gold crown with 7 layers of pearls and other gemstones to show his supremacy.
On the other hand, ancient Egyptians were worn amulets and talismans. The ankh, or life sign, was a prominent theme throughout Iran and the Mediterranean. The numerous strands of beads of various hues are a popular item of jewelry that is even regaining popularity. The Egyptians used a variety of colorful gemstones to make bracelets.
Most of the gemstones that we use today had already been found by the time of the Romans. The norm of the day was mystery and enchantment, and jewels were treated with reverence. They also served a secondary use for Roman women: they were long enough to be employed as self-defense hairpins.
Shortly, jewelry is not only stones, but they also have usage areas, materials, colors, and of course spirits to transfer to other generations. Also, jewelry creates an impact on others who are charmed by just looking at the art of the precious stones. Perception of jewelry has been linked with management, command, hierarchy, and other administrative norms to emphasize class division.
Aleyna Yılmaz
