A representation of feminine beauty and mystique, the
necklace has been an integral part of a woman's decoration and beauty for ages.
Whether a choker, rosary or chain, the necklace has achieved a timeless appeal.
In many cultures, necklaces have marked cultural distinctions, based on
ornamentation, length and attire. From Greek mythology to the French
Revolution, the necklace has played a major role in cultures worldwide.
Since the dawn of time, necklaces have been fashioned from
jewels, chains, rocks, metal, cloth, wood, and shells. As one of the first
man-made objects for wearing around the neck, necklaces once served as an
elemental piece of apparel for men and women. Prehistoric fashions that draped
around the neck and torso (forming the shape of a safety pin) were used to
clasp layers of clothing. Among the ancient Egyptians, necklaces formed a
fundamental part of dress. For example, the Ankh was worn to symbolize the
amulet of life. Egyptians also adorned
their necklaces with gold, beads and jewels, which later served as temptation
for grave robbers centuries later.
In ancient Rome,
young boys wore a bullah, or a chain around the neck with a pouch containing an
amulet. While the bullah was worn by most classes, the upper class had amulets
made of gold. These necklaces were intended to provide protection as boys were
considered the stronger species in need of special protection. In comparison,
Roman men wore signet rings of iron or gold. These rings were used to seal
official documentation. Since Roman women during these times did not enjoy the
same societal status as their male counterparts, jewelry was a mechanism of
showcasing their particular position in society. According to one source, when
a 195 B.C. law suggested that women give their jewelry away for use in war
materials, women protested in the streets. Typical jewels of the day included
amber, gold, pearls, polished stones, and glass beads.
During the Medieval ages, necklaces were simple and
practical. But as history progressed through the 14th through 16th
centuries, jewelry in general became more glamorized, especially neckwear.
Intricately designed chains and collars graced the necks of ladies.
With all the power, prestige and beauty contained within one
piece of jewelry, perhaps it is not so surprising that the necklace played an
integral role in the downfall of France's monarchy. Known as the
"Affair of the Diamond Necklace," the incident involved the court of
Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette who was implicated in a crime to swindle
the crown jewelers for the cost of a very expensive diamond necklace. The
scandal added to the disillusionment of France's people with their
monarchy, which along with other events, eventually culminated in the French
Revolution.
In the Eastern part of the world, necklaces have long been
fashioned with an array of exquisite jewelry and gold. In fact, gold necklaces
play a very important role in Middle Eastern dress even today. The Arabian
necklace symbolizes not only an embellishment, but also a form of security and
an economic marker. Islamic calligraphy and Quranic symbols are also prevalent.
Neckwear in Assam, India, is often typified with motifs of
orchids and flora and fauna. Other Indian jewelry ranges from religious to
domestic. In areas surrounding temples, shops sell sanctified necklaces made of
scented sandalwood, silk and gold. Worn by married Hindu women, the mangal
sutra symbolizes love in holy matrimony. It is made of a combination of black beads
and a gold pendant.
In Africa, necklaces designed from colorful beads have been
used as part of traditional attire for centuries. African neckwear has also
been used to designate tribal heritage, status, and for currency exchange.
No matter the cultural destination, the necklace has been an
important decoration for ages. Some
cultures have even utilized the necklaces to identify cultural and class
distinctions. Indeed, the necklace has
played a major role in cultures worldwide.
Lewis Jewelers is proud to carry
the full line of Pandora Jewelry. Pandora bracelets, Pandora charms and
Pandora beads are only a part of the collection. For more
information, contact Lewis Jewelers, 2000 West Stadium
Blvd., Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48103, 877-88-LEWIS or visit http://www.pandorabraceletsusa.com.
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