Arguably the oldest type of jewellery is that which is worn around one’s neck. The humble necklace has survived more than just the trends of the fickle fashion industry – it’s survived revolutions, plagues and even an ice age. Archaeologists think the oldest piece of neck jewellery is about 75,000 years old. The necklace consisted of 41 mollusks strung together – the remains of the shells were discovered in a South African cave in 2004. Though there’s some debate as to whether the collection of shells was actually a necklace or not, the fact remains that people have been stringing iconic bits of anything and everything around their necks for ages.
The first gold necklaces – choker style bands - appeared in 2500 BC, archaeologists discovered evidence of these in today’s Iraq. Gemstones first appeared in Sumerian bead necklaces in 2000 BC, alternating between the more traditional coloured stones. And pendants first became popular during the classical Greek era, between 480 and 300 BC. Many of today’s necklaces are based on these three archetypes. Common modern necklace styles include: the choker, which is worn quite close to the neck; the sautoir, a long necklace with a dangling pendant; beaded necklaces; bolo necklaces, which have fastenings similar to the tie that shares its name; swag necklaces, often made from beads with intricate detail and a lacy appearance; lariat necklaces, these loop back on themselves instead of having traditional fixings; and the teardrop or wishbone necklace, which has a ‘y’ shape to it. Most of these necklace styles are more feminine, suited best for women and young girls; more bulky necklaces, suited for men and boys are also popular and available.
Necklaces are made from chain, wire or cords – the most popular metals used for necklace design are gold, sterling silver and platinum; when necklaces are made from non-metal cords, leather, silk and even rubber are used. Pendants for necklaces are made from literally anything – ancient necklaces, as you’ve read, were adorned with shells, stones and bone; and though some similar necklaces are still made today, it is far more common to include a gemstone, precious metal or bead pendant which holds significance to the wearer.
When purchasing your necklace online, seek out online jewellers with: good reviews from online shopping guides; a clearly written returns policy; a phone number you can call with any questions you may have; and, a guarantee or certificate of authenticity for gemstones and precious metals. It is best to do your research before making your purchase – know the characteristics of the gemstones you want in the necklace so that you can ask appropriate questions and make an informed decision.
Also, when buying a necklace, it’s vital to know the neck measurement of the person the necklace is for. To get an accurate measurement, use a tape measurer and try to visualise where the necklace you have in mind is designed to fall on the neck/collar/bust of the person in question. Also, if you have access to the person’s existing jewellery collection, have a look and see if there’s a similar necklace and measure it. Also, be sure to confer with your jeweller as to whether or not the necklace can be adjusted for size as if the person gains or loses weight.
© Jewellery Box.org.uk 2006.
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