Jewellery is something that’s been with humanity for thousands of years. Evidence suggests modern humans have been decorating themselves with shiny stones and seashells since the lower Palaeolithic, over 100,000 years ago. And back then, there weren’t any ego-driven rappers looking for the biggest and best bling.
So, if that wasn’t the driving force behind our collective preoccupations with jewellery, what is? That’s what you’re about to learn in this post. We dive into the reasons behind humanity’s obsession with bracelets, earrings, necklaces, rings, and brooches.
The History
One reason jewellery is more than just bling is the history it embodies. Pieces are often family heirlooms, passed down through the generations, each with a story to tell.
Many people see jewellery as a way to connect to their ancestors. Wearing or keeping the items they owned provides a much-needed connection to the past that goes beyond financial or monetary worth.
Often, pieces of jewellery were present at critical family events, like weddings, funerals, and vacations. Sometimes they were an ever-present feature of an old family home.
The Symbolism
For other people, jewellery is more than just bling because of the symbolism and identity value it provides. It’s a way to express individuality and status.
For this reason, bespoke jewellery is growing in popularity. People want pieces that reflect their personality more accurately, showing others who they are and what they value.
Jewellery can also relate to religious beliefs. Many people wear gold necklaces to symbolise Catholicism or represent Hinduism. These symbols are best done in the form of jewellery instead of through other channels.
The Celebration Of Milestones
Another reason jewellery is more than just bling is that it is a powerful tool for celebrating milestones. People use it to mark special occasions, weddings, or anniversaries.
This function was more important in the past, but it remains essential today. It’s a way of permanently marking an occasion and making it special.
The Artistry
For some, jewellery isn’t about sharing status at all. Instead, it’s an art form worth celebrating.
Some artisans spend thousands of hours crafting the jewellery they create and sell it for millions of pounds on luxurious high streets in Paris, Geneva, and Milan. For these creators, it’s a passion, no different from how Van Gogh loved to paint.
You can see the level of effort that goes into many hand-made items. It can take years to craft the shape of the metal and place the jewels in just the right arrangement. At the end is a stunning one-off piece that will likely never be made again.
The Confidence
Finally, jewellery is about confidence for some people. Wearing a high-value or high-quality item gives a sense of prestige and can help make some people feel well-composed and put together.
Jewellery, for example, is an accessory for a dress for a dinner occasion or for going out on dates. It’s also something that can complement makeup.
So there you have it: why jewellery is more than just bling.
