Chapter 1
Ancient roots of charm jewelry
Chapter 2
The global art of chunky metalwork
Chapter 3
The modern maximalist comeback
Chapter 4
Bag charms and the art of personalization
YOUR GOAL
Master of The rise of maximalist jewelry
Ch 1 · Ancient roots of charm jewelry
sonia Ancient roots of charm jewelry
Ancient Morocco, so long ago, Sea snail shells, a protective glow. Worn for luck and to keep safe, Our first charms, a human embrace.
sonia Queen Victoria popularized decorative charm bracelets as a way to commemorate personal life events.
sonia Roman children wore special lockets called bullae to ward off evil spirits and bad luck.
Fun Fact
Ancient Egyptian scarabs: In ancient Egypt, scarab charms were carved from green stone to symbolize the heart and protect the wearer's soul during judgment.
Glossary
amulet (noun)
An ornament or small piece of jewelry thought to give protection against evil, danger, or disease. Ancient Egyptians wore scarab-shaped carvings to protect the deceased on their journey into the afterlife.
An ornament or small piece of jewelry thought to give protection against evil, danger, or disease. Ancient Egyptians wore scarab-shaped carvings to protect the deceased on their journey into the afterlife.
Quiz
What was a Roman 'bulla', given to young boys in ancient Rome, primarily made of for wealthy families?
Quiz
Which British monarch sparked a major 19th-century trend for wearing personal charm bracelets?
Quiz
Which ancient civilization commonly placed protective scarab charms in tombs around 3000 BCE?
Quiz
Which historical accessory, popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, was a waist-worn clip holding keys, scissors, and charms?
Quiz
Which ancient group of people created 'torcs'—heavy, chunky metal neck rings worn as symbols of power and status?