The History of Silver Necklaces

Necklaces have a story.

Whatever their form and complexity, they have adorned humanity for a very long time. Research and excavationists have indeed shown that our ancestors already adorned themselves with necklaces. 

Prehistoric ornaments have been found, mainly made up of natural elements such as:

• Bones.
• Claws.
• Teeth.
• Shells.

These were simply pierced, then sewn onto clothing, or put together around a thread or cord.

Necklaces have since evolved greatly over time, with the discovery of new materials.

Metals, cut gemstones, glass, and plastic are now added to the jewelry. Craft techniques have multiplied, and necklaces have become more and more elaborate and complex.

Let’s go back together to the great history of silver necklaces in Africa.

History of African silver necklaces

African cultures have always valued personal decoration. Both men and women wore ancient necklaces as a form of adornment.

True, beauty ideals differ not only from country to country but also between communities within the same country. This also applies to the meanings and characteristics that each community associated with the necklace that they incorporated into their lifestyles.

Silver necklaces have been found in archaeological sites in Africa dating back over 3,000 years. The earliest African silver necklaces were made from large, circular pieces of silver that were hammered into thin sheets. 

Necklaces made from these silver sheets were often decorated with small, round pieces of silver that were hammered into them.

The Nubians invented the first African silver necklaces. These necklaces were created by stringing together silver coins. They were worn by men and women alike and were frequently embellished with gemstones and other charms.

African silver necklaces quickly gained popularity in other parts of Africa. In West Africa, necklaces were made from silver wire twisted into intricate designs while in East Africa they were made from silver coins hammered into thin sheets.

It’s not just about appearances. On the continent, silver necklaces were used to convey various messages within the community.

The first is wealth. A common dowry arrangement in which the estimated value of the union is reflected. Once a woman accumulated a sizable stockpile of jewelry, as in Saharan communities, it could be used as a form of currency. It could be used to keep the family financially afloat in difficult times.

 

The benefits of wearing a silver necklace

Silver is in the collective imagination second to gold, both in value and in rarity. It is therefore much cheaper than its golden cousin. 

Its silver color is often preferred to gold in jewelry, especially to bring out femininity. Aesthetically, silver is synonymous with modernity and elegance.

Silver, in addition to being malleable, robust, and durable over time, is also a hypoallergenic material.

Silver is a metal renowned for its considerable benefits on human health. This precious metal has already proven itself as an effective antimicrobial agent in the fight against certain infections and diseases such as colds and flu for example.

Silver is also conducive to the rapid healing of wounds. In addition, this metal greatly contributes to the regulation of blood circulation and internal temperature.

Silver is a metal with many antibiotic properties. 

Several people have reported progress in energy circulation and improved mood after wearing this metal, as it has the property of compensating electrical disturbances and strengthening the immune system.

 

CONCLUSION

The silver necklace has a long and varied history that dates back thousands of years. People from all walks of life have worn silver necklaces for a variety of reasons.

Silver necklaces are still popular accessories and are worn for a variety of reasons today.  With all its benefits, a silver necklace is a great choice whether you’re looking for a new piece to add to your collection or a special gift for a loved one!