From the earliest civilizations people adorned themselves with jewelry that served the purpose of beautification, religious and cultural meaning. Adornments comes in many different styles, jewelry types, clothing, make up and body tattoos. As the span of time goes by, these styles of adornments change over the years and develop different meanings later on. In modern times, cultures have adopted different ways of adornment that could have a whole different meaning 500 years ago.
Ancient Egyptian jewelry that have been discovered are documented in the paintings, tombs and sculptures. Most of the jewelry and adornment were form the tombs of the powerful rulers and family members. Bracelets, rings, earrings, necklaces, pins, belt buckles and amulets were made from gold and silver inlaid with precious stones was made out of gold, carnelian, lapis lazuli and turquoise. Motifs included images of the gods and goddesses, hieroglyphic symbols, birds, animals and insects. Seen are the scarab; the Eye of Re; lotus and papyrus plants; the vulture and the hawk; the cobra; and symbols such as the Isis knot. A person's jewelry was placed in his or her grave to be used in the afterworld, along with many other personal items. Ancient Egyptian jewelry had many significant meaning that pertained to their culture and religious beliefs. Both the women and men wore jewelry which showed status and wealth. The wives of the Kings wore amulets to increase fertility, and to protect them in childbirth as well. Pigments were used for eye, lip and cheek make up and henna, a vegetable dye, was used for tattoos.
In modern times jewelry serves the same purpose as in ancient times. Adornment is worn to enhance beauty of status of the wearer. We see today and in the past jewelry is often worn to embellish, enhance, or distinguish the wearer. Adornment can be cultural, religious, or within a particular community as mentioned above. Jewelry is used for beatification, religious purposes and protection from outer influences. In many different cultures and time periods jewelry is used as a status symbol and sign of wealth.
In America diamond rings, Rolex watches, and other expensive jewelry are signs of wealth and status in our current society. In our military we can identify with the Military Regalia, certain adornments like pins or ribbons signify high rank or status. Clothing made by famous fashion designers like Versace make and sell expensive style clothing and accessories for those who are wealthy. On the other hand, tattoos are a common type of adornment that is popular in America for every age and class. In the past tattoos were only for a certain type of subculture in America, and as we can see adornment changes as time changes as well. America is a cultural melting pot and we can see a mix of cultural adornments everywhere, but status adornment is something that doesn't change, for example military regalia hasn't changed since its inception because rank and status within the military must be earned and then rewarded. As we go from ancient civilizations up until today adornments will always be a way of identification in cultures, religion, and societies.
