In the last blog, we had discussed how jewellery over the years has helped us express our different identities, how it facilitated a non-verbal but potent message, and helped us locate where we belong. One aspect of that is the community and culture with which we associate. That association influences almost every aspect of our being. It gives us an identity, and that identity helps us navigate through the different choices of life. One intrinsic feature of culture is traditions that run through generations. As per Price’s Atlas of Ethnographic Societies, there are over 3814 distinct cultures described by Anthropologists, even which is considered a major understatement. Almost all of these cultures have various traditions that are vehicles of expression and belongingness. One commonality among almost all cultures is the use of jewellery as part of customs, special occasions, and for celebrating traditions.
Note: This blog is part of the “Stories of self-expression” series, where we talk about the different ways jewellery has facilitated our journey to expressing ourselves. In the next blog, we’ll discuss how jewellery has become an expression of love and appreciation worldwide, how it holds a sentimental value, and what different jewellery means in different cultures. To read about how jewellery has helped humans express their unique and shared identities, read our previous blog: IDENTITY
