Medieval jewelry that tells stories

Jewelry as we know it today is not just a 21st-century phenomenon. Jewelry has always been a part of our history. In 2009, archaeologists excavating a cave near Taforalt (Morocco) discovered what are likely the oldest datable pieces of jewelry in human history. These pieces are fingernail-sized, perforated Nassarius shells, some decorated with red ochre. They are estimated to be 82,000 years old.

Further archaeological finds from the Stone Age prove that materials such as teeth, wood, and stone were also used for medieval jewelry. Over the years, these evolved, and extravagant stones became precious stones. Furthermore, various metals began to be used not only for tools and weapons but also for jewelry. Naturally, these served as status symbols. The larger and more exquisite the piece of jewelry, the greater the wealth, prestige, and power of the individual within the society, thus representing their social rank. A classic example is the king.

Because jewelry had such high significance and value in the Middle Ages, particularly precious pieces of jewelry were often used as a substitute for money.

Necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, belts, and brooches were worn. Rings played a very important role. The signet ring was not only a symbol of power but also the precursor to the wedding ring. If the man's wife also wore a signet ring, this was meant to show not only that they belonged together but also that the wearers' property belonged to both of them.
Another type of medieval ring that originated in this era was the so-called poison ring. As the name suggests, it was used to conceal poison within the ring using a small hinge.

A particularly common piece of jewelry from the Middle Ages, which also had a rather practical use, is the brooch, also known as a garment pin or fibula. These were usually made of bronze. In more affluent circles, they were cast in silver or gold.