For thousands of years, women and men have chosen jewelry as a way of expressing themselves or belonging to a particular social class. Bracelets, earrings, rings or necklaces — all this is with us from the appearance with primitive people. And they have gone through a lot of changes up to the present day. Although what then, what is now used in principle for the same purposes.
A bracelet is a piece of jewelry worn on the wrist, ankle or forearm. It may have a different shape and design, but the base is the same.
How the look and purpose of the bracelet has changed over time
In the conditions of the primitive system, the bracelet was created as an amulet. It was an ornament made from the teeth of dead animals, special stones and leather elements. Shamans endowed them with a special power, which was supposed to protect the warrior from evil spirits and enemies in battle, to help in the hunt.
It was from that time and for millennia ahead that one of the reasons to wear a bracelet was to protect blood vessels in easily accessible places.
With the onset of the Iron Age after the Neolithic, man learned to work metal. Here the division into classes with the help of decorations is born. Worked metal bracelets were worn by men of a higher position. The poor workers were left with unfinished leather straps, which were often short-lived.
The ancient Egyptians wore many thin bracelets as protection from evil forces and to emphasize status. On the surviving frescoes, you can see the difference in the bracelets of the pharaoh and those close to the bracelets of simpler inhabitants.
Over time, the material of jewelry has changed. Warriors increasingly made metal handrails for protection in battle, and high-ranking officials of states emphasized their status with them.
After the advent of precious stones, the importance of jewelry has increased significantly. The stones were processed and inserted into the bracelet using all the technologies and tools available at that time.
The use of the bracelet as protection in combat was shared with the advent of jewelry. The greatness of the head of state and his family was necessarily reflected in the abundance of decorations.
Often, bracelets and other jewelry were also used as money. Exchange, buying and selling provided an opportunity to experience a new culture and build new trade links. After the emergence of such a craft as jewelry and trade, a new sphere appeared.
In India, for a long time, bracelets were used instead of a wedding ring as an identifier of marital status. Also, many are familiar with the belief that Arab women constantly wear so much gold on themselves. Because in the event of a divorce, they can only leave with what they wear. True or not, Eastern women are famous for their special love for jewelry and bracelets in particular.
The Middle Ages became the era where the role of the bracelet was clearly divided into jewelry and military uniforms. Armor with handrails has become an integral part of the warrior’s defense. And the emperor, king and head of state wear jewelry as a symbol of power and might.
The church in those days had great power, on a par with the ruler, and made its own adjustments to the customs and rules of the state. Thus, the ruler, his family and dignitaries could use the jewels for decoration. The simpler people in the church were incited to the fact that narcissism with jewelry is a sin. At the same time, jewelry was actively used in the Catholic Church and its paraphernalia.
The next surge of interest in jewelry is the Renaissance. The female body became an object of admiration, and a more open wardrobe with bare wrists made it possible to freely wear jewelry in the desired amount.
Beauty was sung by poets and artists, so men sought to give their ladies beautiful bracelets. They, in turn, gladly accepted them and wore them.
Since the beginning of the 20th century, family jewelry collections continued their life in royal families. And for the ordinary population, the presence of bracelets was closely connected with the social system and the situation in the country. World wars undermined the economy of all countries, giving way to communist parties and democratic views in all spheres of life. And only with the revival of French fashion and its popularization, jewelry returned to active use.
Modern trends
In each of the eras, the foundations of society and the rules of the state dictated much more in the world of jewelry than now. Only a certain class or class was allowed to wear bracelets. Or it was a certain bracelet that denoted slaves and ordinary workers.
Fortunately, these times are long gone, and now everyone can choose the decoration that suits their taste.
Fashion is cyclical, so massive plastic models are replaced by minimalist sets and vice versa. Long-term purchases for the future and an individual approach are also very relevant. Therefore, manufacturers create basic bracelets with LeDile, Swarovski, Pandora, Nomination charms — regular and limited collections.
Do not rush to get rid of your favorite jewelry because they have lost their relevance. In a few years, you will definitely get them with pleasure.
Bracelet material and care
Each decoration will remain attractive and serve for a long time only with proper care. Precious metals and natural materials — leather, suede and glass are durable. But improper care can greatly reduce their lifespan.
It is not necessary to use only precious metals when choosing a bracelet. Modern jewelry can also look decent, especially if it is made from quality raw materials.
Each manufacturer has its own methods of caring for the product, and when buying, the seller will definitely acquaint you with them or offer a booklet with a reminder.
It can be unanimously indicated that all bracelets made of any material should be stored in a dry place on a soft material. If there are no special storage bags, plastic containers should be covered with a cloth so that the bracelet is not scratched.
For complex bracelets with fine weave or stones, if possible, visit a jeweler who will carefully check all the links and locks, as well as clean your favorite piece of jewelry. Otherwise, choose non-abrasive, gentle materials, having previously applied them to the back of the bracelet.
Choose jewelry to your liking, and they will bring only pleasant emotions.