The practice of adorning oneself with beautiful metals and stones is hardly a new concept. From ancient civilizations like that of Egypt to modern times, we have been endlessly fascinated decorating ourselves. And it’s not just the women who are compelled to decorate themselves with extravagant jewels. Persian, Babylonian and Egyptian men, especially nobility, were heavily bedecked with precious ornaments.

Bracelets were a big item, as they emphasized arm gestures like waving or condemning foes in battle.

Childhood scarab bracelet of Egyptian Pharaoh Tutankhamun

Look Over There

We need only to look at museum relics to understand the importance of bracelets for the male gender in ancient times. In early Egypt both adults and children wore brightly hued jewelry made of gold and precious stones. For much of its history, jewelry was an important story telling device. Not only did it convey the power and status of its wearer, but it offered protection against evil spirits and was essential when burying the deceased to insure a successful afterlife.