The Cultural Tapestry Behind Modern Jewelry: A Global Legacy

Image of a woman dressed in Ancient Egyptian Adornment

Modern jewelry is influenced by many cultures.  This vast pool of influence provides us with an abundance of beautiful and intricate adornments available for use in modern day. Over time, the JewelofTrades Company hopes to add various pieces that connect with these historic traditions.

It can be said that there are at least 6 to 10 major cultural traditions in our global history that shaped the art of jewelry. Each tradition contributes unique styles, materials, and techniques to the art of adornment.

Over the span of several posts, we hope to get more in depth on the characteristics which shape each category. But for now, here is a brief breakdown of some of the most influential of these cultural traditions.

1. Ancient Egyptian

Characterized by Symbolism (e.g., ankh, scarabs, eye of Horus, lotus flower, etc) and its use of gold, copper, silver, carnelian, turquoise, and lapis lazuli.  Pieces were also set in faience (a form of glazed ceramic) and included glass inlays in various colors. Organic material were also used by lower social classes and jewelry can be found made from shells, bones, and ivory. The jewelry was also worn into the afterlife, often placed in tombs for protection and guidance.

Photo Credit: Metropolitan Museum of Art

2. Greek

Greek jewelry, much like the Egyptian, was deeply symbolic, beautifully-crafted, and reflective of social status. But it also emphasized harmony, natural forms, and use as personal adornment. This style included natural motifs such as olive leaves, shells, and serpents.  There were also geometric patterns common in the Archaic period for this tradition.    

3. Roman

Roman culture is responsible for giving us signet rings, brooches, and gemstone settings.  Roman works fused multi-cultural influences of Greek, Etruscan, and Egyptian tradition into their own style.  It was in their jewelry that we were introduced to the lavish use of pearls and colored stones.

4. Byzantine

This tradition heavily used intricate religious motifs in its jewelry.  Byzantine jewelry included the use of enameling and large gemstones and was embellished with heavy gold designs.

5. Indian

The Indian collections are known for Kundan and Polki styles of gem setting.  The artly pieces include detailed gold craftsmanship.  This culture has a strong emphasis on bridal jewelry that is just as popular today.

6. Chinese

The Chinese tradition provides a strong use of jade jewelry, symbolism of animals and nature and has much use of Cloisonné enamel work. Jewelry in this tradition is also largely cast in gold, silver, and coral.

7. African

African jewelry reflects the style of many of the tribes of the regions (e.g. the Maasai, Ashanti, etc).  The pieces from this tradition include beadwork, bold colors, and organic materials.  Tribes have used their jewelry as symbols amongst their groups. The story of the people can be told through their jewelry.

8. Islamic & Moorish

These jewelry traditions include works with calligraphy and geometric patterns in their design.  The pieces are known for the inlay and enamel work and show influences of Spanish and Mediterranean design.

9. Native American

In North America, the Native American tradition of jewelry existed in various groups such as the Navajo, Zuni, etc.  Common materials for the jewelry were turquoise and silver.  The pieces include symbolic motifs like feathers and animals.  The Native American works are known for their hand-craftmanship and specific, tribal aesthetics.

10. European (Medieval to Victorian)

European traditions contributed the art of gem cutting innovations.  European pieces included cameos, lockets, and mourning jewelry.  The jewelry exhibits influence of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.  

These diverse cultural legacies blend into the eclectic styles we see in contemporary and designer jewelry today.  They originated in meaning and personal purpose. As a self care business, JoTco strives to offer products that help you care for you as well as helps you declare your persona. Our product lines will be influenced by these global jewelry traditions. Welcome to our store and try to decipher for yourself, which tradition influenced each piece... Then make it yours. 💎