Jewellery is a universal form of adornment. Jewellery made from shells, stone and bones survives from prehistoric times. It is likely that from an early date it was worn as a protection from the dangers of life or as a mark of status or rank.
In the ancient world the discovery of how to work metals was an important stage in the development of the art of jewellery. Over time, metalworking techniques became more sophisticated and decoration more intricate.
Gold, a rare and highly valued material, was buried with the dead so as to accompany its owner into the afterlife. Much archaeological jewellery comes from tombs and hoards. Sometimes, as with the gold collars from Celtic Ireland which have been found folded in half, it appears people may have followed a ritual for the disposal of jewellery.
Rosette, maker unknown, Tuscany, 530 BC. Museum no. 8839-1863. © Victoria & Albert Museum, London.
Gold, decorated with embossed work and granulation
Museum no. 8839-1863
© Victoria & Albert Museum, London.
Armlet in the form of a snake
Egypt AD 1-100
Museum no. 631-1884
©Victoria & Albert Museum, London
Pendant, maker unknown, 600BC-500BC. Museum no. M.134-1919. © Victoria & Albert Museum, London
Gold, set with green glass
Museum no. M.134-1919
© Victoria & Albert Museum, London
Pair of earrings, unknown maker, 2nd century BC-1st century BC. Museum no. 8722&A-1863. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London.
Pair of earrings
2nd century BC-1st century BC
Museum no. 8722&A-1863
© Victoria and Albert Museum, London.