Why do we wear necklaces?

 What a strange concept to wear something around your neck.

The Cro-Magnons, ancestors of modern humans, are believed to have been the first to wear necklaces. They made necklaces from animal sinews, bone, teeth, and stone.

But why do we wear necklaces? We do so for many reasons: to show who we are and what we are interested in, it is a way of showing others our style or show off our cultural identity. Some wear them to show off their religious beliefs, or to signify a special occasion or relationship. Many necklaces also hold sentimental value due to their design or the story behind them. They can also be worn as a symbol of wealth or status depending on the materials used.

Glad we stopped using sinew and other animal parts

Key points to consider:

Early necklaces

The earliest necklaces were made from natural materials like shells, stones, feathers, and plant materials. 

• Pendants

  Pendants were among the first necklace designs to be used regularly. The word "pendant" comes from the Latin panderer, which means "to hand down." 

• Chain necklaces

  The oldest chain necklaces were found in ancient Babylonia, now Iraq. 

• Egyptian necklaces

  The ancient Egyptians were known to wear necklaces, including high collars and broad collars made from glass or pottery beads. 

• Metal necklaces

  By the Bronze Age, metallic jewellery replaced pre-metallic adornments. 

• Chokers

  Chokers were a favourite of European royalty in the 18th and 19th centuries