Jewellery in ancient times were simple pieces crafted from natural materials such as shells taken from the seashore or pebbles which were smoothened and polished by being tumbled along the sea or river bed. These naturally available materials were then threaded together in the form of necklaces or wrist jewellery or even jewellery products such as earrings, rings, bracelets, hair pieces and so the list goes on.

Bone jewellery from the pre-historic times

During the times of yore skilled craftsmen toiled for many hours to fashion intricate pieces of bone, ivory and even wood to create exquisitely exceptional pieces of jewellery. No two pieces of jewellery were the same.

For the ancient man, jewellery was not just a piece of adornment but very symbolic. It was thought that these trinkets were talismans that would bring luck and ward off the evil eye. It was also believed that the talismans would even help them defeat their enemies in battle.

Ancient Egyptian Amulet

The Romans and Ancient Egyptians believed that wearing jewellery and the type of jewellery indicated the person’s status in the society. Huge heavy elaborate pieces made from precious metals such as gold, coated with precious or semi-precious gemstones were a sign to showcase the esteem of the person.

Ancient Roman Ring

The styles and materials may have evolved over time, but jewellery has been worn by both men and women. Jewellery is not just a part of adornment, there are accessories that are functional in nature, for eg. medical alert items such as identity bracelets ideally worn by someone who suffers from medical condition or requires vital medication. This comes in handy and is helpful for medical personnel to identify the kind of treatment to be meted to someone who is rendered incapable of communicating because of reasons like an accident or any other ailments.

Another item that falls under the purview of accessory is the brightly coloured rubber bracelets sold to support various charities, which demonstrates the wearers support for a cause through monetary means or through kind. Though some may waive off these bracelets are not adhering to the term of traditional jewellery, however there is no hard and fast rule that states that a piece of jewellery has to be made with precious metals to be termed as jewellery.

Autism awareness rubber bracelet wristband

In modern times, there has been a huge increase in the type and diversity of jewellery that is made available. With new strong and lightweight metals such as titanium or other alloys has given rise to many innovative possibilities. Man-made materials such as acrylics and plastics are economical and are incorporated to craft affordable and colorful jewellery. These are quirky, bring and modern which adds to the sense of fun. (https://www.voiceoverherald.com/)

Frosted plastic necklace

Whilst buyers choose to splurge a little extra on special items of jewellery such as wedding rings, engagement rings and other wedding ornaments, there is an unlimited choice of inexpensive everyday jewellery which we can worn to suit the wearer’s mood or match the outfit.

Jewellery has a myriad of choices in terms of materials. One does not know what kinds of designs and materials will be at one’s disposal to make striking pieces of jewellery. Though one thing is for certain that there will be a never-ending supply to suit all tastes and all budgets from the most traditional to the most contemporary jewellery. Enroll in the 3-years BSc. in Fashion Design offered one of the most recognized jewellery design training institutes in Cochin.

Jewellery through echelons of Time