It is believed that ear jewellery dates back to at least 3000 BC and were predominantly hoop or pendant in style. The oldest pair was discovered in Iraq and has been dated to 2500 BC. In those days, only members of the ruling and wealthy classes could afford gold but other less precious materials were also used. Jewellery and earrings in particular were much more than just an aesthetic adornment. Ear jewellery was clearly and indication of status, wealth or a symbol indicative of religious or political affiliation. However, in some cases particular specific designs and materials marked the wearer as belonging to the class of slaves.
Male ear jewellery items have existed even longer than those intended specifically for women. An ancient Egyptian mummy has been discovered with two earrings on the same ear, so even this trend was apparently started by men and was by no means a modern fashion. Amongst primitive tribes, male ear jewellery made of wood, stone or ivory was a common form of body adornment. The purpose was to symbolise initiation, either as a sign of maturity or to show a particular role in the tribe; the ascendance of a warrior, for example.
Over the centuries, fashion has led the development of many different styles, gold designs have been predominant but pearl and silver earrings have also been widely popular. The choice of stud over hoop or pendant earrings has largely been dictated by hair style. So when the fashion focused on headdresses or high collars, earrings became more difficult to wear and virtually disappeared. Therefore during the Middle Ages and again in the 1850s, earrings lost favour.
In more recent times, men's earring fashions have been inspired by the commonly held image of the rebellious and romantic connotations associated with pirates and highwaymen. Earrings were said to improve vision, they indicated the sailor had crossed the equator, gold earrings were worn as a means to pay for a Christian burial if the sailor died at sea. Whatever the truth, there is no doubt that sailors and pirates have contributed to the increase of men earrings.
During the Roman Empire, women wore earrings to show off their wealth and position in society. Gemstones started to be used too. Post WWI saw the rebirth of short hair styles which revealed ears for all to see. Earrings quickly become a de rigeur fashion statement for a new generation of women.
In the course of the 20th century, earrings have become an essential accessory. Probably one of the easiest pieces of jewellery to wear and with such a wealth of design and material choices, the popularity and longevity of the earring is not surprising.
Source: EzineArticles
