Jewellery 101: Evolution Of Jewellery

One’s outfit will never be complete without jewellery. It has been a popularized adornment and an exclusive decoration in recent times, although in earlier times jewellery was made for practical uses such as a sign of social or religious rank. Its use existed even before clothing was developed. The most universal or common forms of jewellery are necklace, ring, bracelet, and earring.

Earlier Times

Jewellery has been known to man even before fire and clothing ever existed. The oldest one recovered was a pea-sized pierced shell beads believed to have been strung into a bracelet or necklace from 75,000 years ago hidden in a cave in South Africa. The first pieces of jewellery evolved from natural things like bone, shell, wood, animal teeth and even from carved stones. During this time jewellery were made for people high importance to show their status.

Middle Age

It is at this age where jewellery has been massive. The era was dominated by large brooches, glass beads, pendants, heavy gold links chains, precious stones, pearls and signet rings. Design in pieces of jewellery also bloomed. The period stood out for the types and designs they have in common.

Eighteenth Century to Present

In the late eighteenth century the use of jewellery has been superseded by buttons, watches, rings, and buckles. The form of jewellery has been gendered and specialized in women. Still, the quality and quantity of jewellery signified status.

Costume jewellery became a more widespread alternative during this era although it has always been around during early time. It followed the rapidly changing fashions in dress. Modern costume jewellery incorporates a wide range of materials.

Modern period saw evolution of jewellery from colourful gold to monochromatic and abstract forms. Gem-cutting techniques have advanced paving way for greater quantities of stones like diamonds and pearls to be available. New variations, materials and methods and manufacturing techniques have been applied to jewellery from eighteenth century to present.

Uses and Function

There are few reasons why jewellery is worn or used - dowry, symbolism, protection, artistic and wealth display and functional use.

Numerous cultures practiced giving dowries in form of jewellery. It has been used as currency for trade during earlier times. Wearing jewellery also showed status or wealth. Christians use the sign of a crucifix in pendants as symbolism for their faith. Wedding rings have become a symbolism for married people in western practice. Wearing jewellery as amulets in some cultures to protect them or to ward off evil spirits has long been a practice.

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Maliere is a Master Jeweller from France who offers his exquisite ring designs and styles in Ireland. Maliere specialises in Wedding Rings and engagement rings incorporating gold, platinum and diamonds. There is a wide collection of engagement and wedding rings to choose from. Maliere is famous for putting the best of his art and skills in every ring that he makes.

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