As early as the Bronze Age, earrings were worn. Used by ancient populations as symbols of richness, they also spread among nomad tribes of several origins. In the past, earrings were considered good luck charms, or worn for practical purposes or as ornaments. Since the early Middle Ages earrings acquired more value, with set gems or teardrop pearls, and started to be considered female jewels. The set gemstones were mainly colored gems, while diamonds started to be mounted in earrings around the end of the XVIII century, when diamond earrings became a must, destined to be such forever....the classic staple, in any jewelry wardrobe, still today.
Love for earrings is not only a matter of fashion, but it is also linked to symbols and special meanings. It is known that in several Central African tribes, women like wearing big earrings, similar to plug earrings, as symbols of seduction, sexuality and femininity. Not to leave the men out... At the age of pharaohs, the earring was a male jewel and this custom was popular for the following years, passing through the XVI Century up to now, even with different conceptions. While presently men wear earrings for style, in the past this male ornament had also symbolized love. In a famous portrait of William Shakespeare, the writer has an earring in his left ear, and at that time, wearing only one earring could represent a good luck charm, protecting the love between a woman and a man owning the same earrings.
Nobles and poets were not the only men who used to wear earrings. More eccentric and legendary characters used to have earrings, shaping modern fashion’s ideas. Sailors, for example, wore an earring as they believed that piercing the ears could improve their sight, helping them to become watch–persons. Also, legendary pirates liked earrings, mainly for practical uses: in fact, considering the risk of dying during their adventures, pirates considered earrings as suitable rewards for who would have buried them.
Therefore, earrings were born in the ancient time and they evolved from symbols of richness to tribal costume. They have fascinated both women and men for years. Enjoy whatever style you choose and in these times of screen time meetings, Zoom and Facetime, don't forget to show off a little bit of style with a great pair of earrings!
Happy new year to you all. Stay well and stay safe! Thank you for your patronage.
Brooke
*Some source content from Luxedogems.
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