Body Jewelry: A History of Self-Expression
Posted on: July 20, 2011
Body Jewelry: A History of Self-Expression
Although body jewelry is a relatively recent trend in western societies, for centuries it has been used as a form of self-expression around the world. At various times across a range of cultures, body piercings have indicated status, been used as rites of passage, and served as fashion accessories. Although the lack of physical and written evidence can provide obstacles to the study of body jewelry, archeologists are beginning to take a new interest in piercings as they become an important part of current culture.
In tribal cultures across Africa, South America, and the Pacific Islands, body jewelry has been a significant part of their life and history. Many of them continue to practice body piercing as an ongoing part of their practices. Ear piercing and stretching – the precursor to modern day plugs – were used as status symbols and to enhance beauty. Lip piercing and stretching was also common in certain tribal societies.
Nose jewelry became important in India as an indicator of status. The placement, design, and materials of the adornment would indicate wealth, nobility, and class standing. During the 60s, pilgrims from the western world visited India and brought piercing practices to their own countries.
Body jewelry also has its place in western history. In Rome, nipple piercings were a mark of masculinity. Ear piercings were common during the Elizabethan era with famous figures such as Shakespeare sporting a single ear piercing. European sailors often had one piercing in their ear as this was thought to improve long distance vision. Nipple piercings were also associated with various rites of passage practiced by sailors.
By the first half of the 20th century, body jewelry was practically non-existent in western societies. The punk movement of the 70s began to bring body jewelry back into the public eye as a radical alternative trend. Throughout the 80s, 90s and the new millennium, body jewelry has grown in popularity and acceptability. Body jewelry worn by musicians, actors, or other popular figures has aided the mainstreaming of piercing.
Body jewelry today can have a variety of meanings or purposes. No matter the reason for a body piercing, it is a practice with a rich history that can be celebrated.
In tribal cultures across Africa, South America, and the Pacific Islands, body jewelry has been a significant part of their life and history. Many of them continue to practice body piercing as an ongoing part of their practices. Ear piercing and stretching – the precursor to modern day plugs – were used as status symbols and to enhance beauty. Lip piercing and stretching was also common in certain tribal societies.
Nose jewelry became important in India as an indicator of status. The placement, design, and materials of the adornment would indicate wealth, nobility, and class standing. During the 60s, pilgrims from the western world visited India and brought piercing practices to their own countries.
Body jewelry also has its place in western history. In Rome, nipple piercings were a mark of masculinity. Ear piercings were common during the Elizabethan era with famous figures such as Shakespeare sporting a single ear piercing. European sailors often had one piercing in their ear as this was thought to improve long distance vision. Nipple piercings were also associated with various rites of passage practiced by sailors.
By the first half of the 20th century, body jewelry was practically non-existent in western societies. The punk movement of the 70s began to bring body jewelry back into the public eye as a radical alternative trend. Throughout the 80s, 90s and the new millennium, body jewelry has grown in popularity and acceptability. Body jewelry worn by musicians, actors, or other popular figures has aided the mainstreaming of piercing.
Body jewelry today can have a variety of meanings or purposes. No matter the reason for a body piercing, it is a practice with a rich history that can be celebrated.