Whether you are the ruler of a country or a household, you probably wear jewelry, which has been a fascinating part of human culture for centuries. The most obvious reasons to wear it are self-expression and personal adornment. Jewelry is art for the body. We express our individuality by creating the image we show to the world, including hairstyle, clothing choices, and yes, even jewelry. The Ancient Egyptians created some of the most recognized precious metal and gemstones treasures in the world.

Many brides become royalty for the day as they don bejeweled crowns to celebrate their wedding days. All eyes will surely be upon the bride as they should be.

A signature piece is an item worn on a daily basis. Although it may have a significant meaning, the way it makes you feel when you wear it is the most important hallmark of such an adored piece of jewelry.

We wear jewelry to celebrate love – New love in engagement rings, and commitment in wedding bands.

Anniversary rings, also known as eternity bands, signify love, which has stood the test of time. The love between BFFs is reflected in friendship rings.

The human heart has inspired many books, poems, songs, and works of art. Heart-shaped jewelry is the most popular choice for expressing love.

Jewelry or the lack of it can assist us in the search for a mate. The first thing most singles look for is a wedding band, or a tan line, or that mysterious indentation on the ring finger of the left hand. (lol)  Of course this method isn’t fool proof. Not all married people wear wedding rings, and not all cultures wear them on the left hand. Another more subtle custom is wearing an ankle bracelet to indicate relationship status: wear it on the left ankle if you are in a relationship, or on the right ankle if you are unattached.

Fashionistas wear jewelry to complement their ensembles, attract attention, and to keep up with the latest trends. Fashion and beauty have become worldwide aspirations and jewelry plays a very important role. The right piece of jewelry can take an outfit from attractive to absolutely stunning.

Accomplishments are often celebrated with jewelry. Upon graduation, alumni often wear a school ring. Military personnel receive pins to indicate commendations and even rank. During the athletic competitions, the winners wear medals around the neck, or expensive rings like those awarded to the winners of the Super Bowl.

Jewelry can be worn for identification, such as ID bracelets and military dog tags. People with certain medical conditions or allergies will often wear medical alert bracelets.

Faith is expressed in crosses, the Star of David, and other symbols. Clergy wear rings to indicate their position within the religious community.

Collectors see jewelry as a unique art form. They appreciate the design, the materials used, and the handcrafting that goes into each piece, making it a work of art.

Jewelry is often given to commemorate special occasions such as Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, or a special birthday. The “key to my heart” is a popular love theme.

Mardi Gras beads are highly sought after in New Orleans during this multi-day celebration. Many people hang those beads from their car’s rear view mirror as a reminder of the wild parties and the promise of good times next year.

Different cultures wear jewelry for traditional reasons and to express pride in their heritage. The Irish Claddagh rings, signifying love, loyalty and friendship, are often worn as wedding bands.

As part of the warm Aloha spirit, Hawaiians welcome guests with necklaces called leis, made from flowers, seashells, or nuts.

In many countries, such as England, the Crown Jewels are worn by the monarchy, however those jewels belong to the people.

In the past, people wore precious metals and gemstones to promote healing, and for protection from things real or imagined. Carrying or wearing a particular gemstone often countered superstitions.

Silicone or rubber wristbands started out as a popular way to express charity support. Today, they can be custom made to represent anything from an inspirational quote, song lyrics or whatever has personal meaning for you.

Who could forget the One ring? Although it is a fictional story, “The Lord of the Rings” is a haunting tale, demonstrating what some are willing to do, good or bad, to gain power or to protect and save their world. There have been many examples throughout human history in which the wearer of a special ring is empowered with privileges and authority over others.

Family heirlooms are worn in remembrance of our ancestors, and to remind us of where we have come from and how that helped bring us to where we are today. Starting new traditions gives us an opportunity to contribute to our family histories for the generations to come.

Whatever our reasons, wearing jewelry will continue to play an important role in our future. What does your jewelry mean to you? How does it make you feel? If you’re happy and empowered, good for you, and if not, there are plenty of jewelry options out there. You’ll find the right one made just for you.

Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!

We wear jewelry for many reasons, but rings in particular have played a significant role in our lives.  The circular shape, with no beginning and no end, symbolizes eternity.  Rings can have special meanings for individuals, families, communities, and cultures.

Self-Expression:

The most obvious reasons to wear rings are self-expression and personal adornment.

We express our individuality by creating the image we show to the world, including hairstyle, clothing choices, and yes, even jewelry.

A signature ring is an item worn on a daily basis.

Although it may have a significant meaning, the way it makes you feel when you wear it is the most important hallmark of such an adored piece of jewelry.

Jewelry is art for the body.

Commitment:

Engagement rings represent promises and intentions.

Wedding bands are signs of love and fidelity.

Anniversary rings, also known as eternity bands, commemorate love through the years.

Family Heritage:

A coat of arms honors family history.  Rings like this become family heirlooms passed down from one generation to the next.

Birthstone rings celebrate your birth month or zodiac sign.
For more information on gemstone meanings and uses throughout history, please read: “Gemstone Healing Traditions.”

Accomplishments:

Accomplishments are often celebrated with jewelry.  Upon graduation, alumni often wear a ring to demonstrate school pride and personal achievement.  Champions in athletics are awarded expensive rings such as the winners of the Super Bowl.

Affirmations:

Affirmation rings serve as reminders to fulfill our goals and dreams.

Feathers symbolize our connection to angels, the spirit world, and our higher selves.

Cultural Pride:

Different cultures wear jewelry for traditional reasons and to express pride in their heritage.  The Irish Claddagh signifies love, loyalty and friendship.

This mosaic ring set in silver is a fine example of intricate Moroccan design and craftsmanship.

Ancient Viking rings symbolize clan loyalty, while the open design provides flexibility.

Membership:

Social clubs wear rings in honor of teamwork, shared goals and simply for the fun of it.

Professional organizations wear insignia rings as a sign of group values and camaraderie.

Power:

Rings can be a sign of authority, such as those worn by royalty and religious leaders.  Historically, kings often sealed documents with hot wax and the impression of a specific ring to authenticate the contents.  Envoys sometimes carried a royal ring as proof of their authority to speak on behalf of the monarchy.

Who could forget the One ring?  Although it is a fictional story, “The Lord of the Rings” is a haunting tale, demonstrating what some are willing to do, good or bad, to gain power or to protect and save their world.

As we move toward the future, new jewelry designs will debut and the classics will appeal to new audiences, while their underlying meanings pique our curiosity.  What do your rings mean to you?

Thanks for reading and Happy Crafting!