A piece of jewelry can lend a subtle elegance to a woman. You can make an everlasting lifestyle statement just by buying or gifting it. From time immemorial, it has adorned royalty and traditions. Men have also used jewelry to enhance their position or just to add a touch of style.

The history of pre-Columbian jewelry started around 4000 B.C. The Columbian civilization was rich and varied and had a large reserve of natural resources in terms of precious metals. Copper, gold, silver and an alloy of copper and gold called tumbago were extensively used in the making of jewelry. Gold was mainly used as offerings to the Gods and gold items accompanied the dead in their graves. The Mesoamericans were expert jewelry makers and used the techniques of hammering, granulation and the lost wax method which is still used today in the making of modern jewelry.

Native bead work with the use of turquoise, coral and shell beads was extremely advanced in pre-Columbian times. Shells were an important raw material and were imported from long distances by land and sea. The ethnic beads were an expression of their traditional artistry. Platinum was also used in the making of historical jewelry in this era.

The society was advanced in astronomy and their art and jewelry reflects their involvement with the sun, moon and the planets. Facial ornaments like the nose and the lip plugs were worn by men holding high positions in the society. The ear spool was extremely popular among both men and women. It was typically made of semi-precious gemstones like jadeite, greenstones or shells. Carvings of animals like crocodiles, deer, jaguar, serpents and even men and women with children were particularly prevalent in their jewelries. Other common ornaments included brooches, necklaces, pendants, headbands, ritual belts and multi-strand beaded collars.

Today, many online shops unveil exquisite designs of pre-Columbian jewelry that has mesmerized the world for ages. These classic pieces are the treasures of the past and can never lose their charm. They symbolize rank, wealth and social standing. The value of historical jewelry increases with each passing day.

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