Jewelry and accessories are not only meant to enhance one’s look, but they often carry a special meaning. Whether it’s a treasured family heirloom or a piece that was gifted on a special occasion, the pieces we wear allow us to keep loved ones close to our hearts and remind us of what is important in life. In some cultures, specific pieces of jewellery symbolize protection and act as talismans or amulets, shielding the wearer from evil spirits or ill fortune. Similarly, certain stones are believed to hold healing or manifesting powers, such as rose quartz for love and gold for health.
In addition to these sentimental values, jewellery can also act as a mark of affiliation, signifying religious beliefs and fostering a sense of community and identity. This is evident through the use of crucifixes and Hamsa pendants among Judaism, or the wearing of chains of office by members of various political and religious groups. Moreover, jewellery can also serve as a status symbol, signifying one’s rank or social standing as seen in the use of neck rings, belt buckles and ear cuffs by women.
Regardless of the emotional and spiritual value, jewelry has been a fashion staple for centuries. During the Victorian era, men would wear a variety of accessories like collar bars and cufflinks to display their social status. However, it was only after the end of World War I that men started embracing bigger and bolder jewelry pieces like chunky chain necklaces and rings.
Today, the jewelry industry is booming with a wide range of styles to suit everyone’s tastes. From intricate, sculptural earrings and ring sets to statement necklaces and bracelets, there’s something for every individual. The best jewellery can take your everyday outfit to the next level, and knowing how to accessorize properly can help you feel confident and put your best self forward.
It’s important to understand the psychology behind why people buy and wear jewelry. By doing so, designers, brands and marketers can create and communicate more effectively with their audiences. For example, if a brand is aware that their audience cares about sustainability, they can design and market their jewelry using recycled materials. Alternatively, if they know that their audience is expressive and love to show off their personality, they can create jewellery with vivid colors or unique designs.
Having a firm grasp on these accessory terms will help you sound more informed in conversations and find the perfect piece to add to your collection. And with Preply’s live tutors at your disposal, you can practice talking about fashion with native speakers and learn more about the world of accessories!
