Tracing the Timeless Craft: The Rich History of Handmade Jewelry

The History of Handmade Jewelry

Handmade jewelry dates back 1,000s of years where some evidence goes back to 115,00 years. The earliest evidence is the Neanderthals from Europe.  This includes findings of perforated beads made from sea shells and small stones.

The ancient civilizations from the Mediterranean area and Iran made jewelry from basic stones.  They transformed this into amulets and seals.  The cultures believed they had spiritual meanings.  The popular designs were in floral or star arrangement. These pieces were created from 3,000-400 B.C.

In ancient Egypt, jewelry were symbols of wealth, religious, and protective meanings.  Pharaohs were buried with intricately crafted pieces that were gold necklaces and amulets.

In medieval Europe, jewelry reflected that status-conscious society. At that time only royalty and nobles wore gold, silver and precious stones.  While the lower ranks wore base metals like copper or pewter.