Jewellery

An eighteenth dynasty of Ancient Egypt princess's crown

Jewellery (or jewelry) refers to any clothing accessory that is worn as a decoration.

In itself, jewellery has no other purpose than to look attractive. However, it is often added to items that have a practical use. Items such as belts and handbags are mainly accessories but may be decorated. A broach, often worn to keep a cloak closed, could be highly decorated with jewels.

Necklaces, finger rings and earrings are the most usual kinds of jewellery.

History

Humans have made jewellery for a long time. There are many forms of jewelry worn for traditional, social or religious reasons. Jewellery can come in many forms, worn on any part of the body or clothing. Jewellery most often are rings, chains, bead strings, pendants and piercings, worn around or on different body parts.

Creation

Jewellery can be made from any material. The first jewellery was made from bone, animal teeth, wood or stone. Jewelry often uses gemstones and precious metals.

Fashion jewellery or costume jewellery is jewellery that is worn just for fashion, and is not made of expensive materials.

Common jewellery types

Earrings, which is any jewellery worn on the ears
Necklaces, worn around the neck
Finger rings and toe rings (finger rings are usually just called "rings")
Bracelets or bangles, worn on the wrists
Arm rings or armlets, worn on the upper arms
Pins or brooches, worn on clothes for decoration or keeping clothes from undoing.
Piercings, which is jewelry that is put through holes in the skin
Cremation jewelry such as keepsakes, bracelets, keychains, necklaces, pendants or rings