Layered, stacked, draped, pinned or crowned, jewelry has always been a statement of personality, style and power. Even the earliest known civilizations exhibited a desire for personal adornment, using jewelry as an expression of their rank. These ornamental findings show that as each society advanced, their jewelry also developed a distinctive style that reflected their cultural voice.

What is known today about ancient jewelry has quite literally been unearthed. Most often, ancient jewels have been found buried with the dead or in hidden caches, most likely secreted during uprisings and wars. Excavations show that both men and women wore jewelry - and lots of it.

Both genders wore earrings, arm bands, bracelets, bangles, necklaces, head pieces, ankle bracelets, brooches, rings and more. Headbands were prominent amongst royals and attendants. Full body adornments and common layering of multiple pieces was part of their daily dress. In death, especially amongst royals, they were adorned to the hilt with jewelry worn during life. Even the poor were buried with simple necklaces.

Read the first part in its entirety - Fashion Collaborative.

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