The time period for ornamental ornaments worn for private adornment has its roots within the Outdated French phrase “jouel,” derived from the Latin “jocale,” which means “plaything.” This developed into the Anglo-Norman “juelerie,” referring to a set of such objects. Over time, the phrase remodeled into the trendy English “jewellery,” encompassing a broad vary of treasured and non-precious objects together with necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings.
Understanding the etymology of this phrase illuminates its historic and cultural significance. From historic civilizations utilizing shells and stones for adornment to the delicate craftsmanship of recent gemologists, these adornments have persistently held social, financial, and private worth. They function symbols of standing, expressions of individuality, and treasured heirlooms handed down by means of generations. The evolution of the phrase itself mirrors the evolving function and artistry of those ornamental objects all through historical past.
This exploration of the phrase’s origins supplies a basis for additional dialogue on subjects associated to the supplies, methods, and cultural affect of private adornment throughout completely different eras and societies.
1. Outdated French
The Outdated French phrase “jouel,” which means “plaything,” kinds a vital hyperlink in understanding the etymology of “jewellery.” Inspecting its numerous aspects reveals how this seemingly easy time period laid the muse for the trendy understanding of decoration.
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Semantic Evolution
The which means of “jouel” as “plaything” means that early types of jewellery weren’t solely considered for his or her financial or social worth, but additionally for the pleasure and delight they introduced. This angle highlights the intrinsic human need for ornamentation and aesthetic expression, extending past mere performance. This early affiliation with pleasure continues to resonate within the fashionable appreciation of knickknack’s magnificence and artistry.
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Connection to Latin “jocale”
“Jouel” derives immediately from the Latin phrase “jocale,” additionally which means “plaything” or “joke.” This linguistic connection reinforces the idea of knickknack as objects of amusement and delight, probably together with small trinkets or toys along with what we’d now take into account conventional jewellery. This shared root deepens the understanding of the historic context surrounding private adornment.
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Transition to Anglo-Norman “juelerie”
“Jouel” served as the premise for the Anglo-Norman time period “juelerie,” which signified a set of jewels. This improvement marks a shift from the singular object of play to the idea of a curated assemblage, suggesting an rising emphasis on the worth and status related to possessing a number of items. This transition paved the best way for the trendy understanding of knickknack as each particular person objects and curated collections.
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Affect on Fashionable English “jewellery”
The evolution from “jouel” to “jewellery” demonstrates a transparent linguistic lineage. Whereas the which means has broadened to embody a wider vary of adornments, the underlying idea of private ornament stays. The playful connotation of the unique phrase hints on the enduring human fascination with ornamentation, reflecting a need for each aesthetic expression and social signaling.
By tracing the evolution from the Outdated French “jouel,” one positive factors priceless perception into the historic and cultural significance of knickknack. The journey from “plaything” to the trendy understanding of decoration reveals a fancy interaction of social, financial, and private motivations that proceed to form our relationship with these ornamental objects.
2. Latin
The Latin phrase “jocale,” which means “plaything” or “jest,” stands as a major precursor to the trendy time period “jewellery.” Understanding this etymological hyperlink supplies essential perception into the historic notion and evolving operate of decoration. The time period “jocale” means that early types of jewellery weren’t solely about materials worth or social standing. These objects possible held a extra playful and fewer severe connotation, probably encompassing small trinkets, amulets, or ornamental objects supposed to deliver pleasure and amusement, alongside objects with symbolic or non secular which means. Examples from Roman archaeological websites reveal a various vary of artifacts, from intricately carved bone hairpins to easy glass beads, supporting this principle.
The connection between “jocale” and “jewellery” illuminates a shift in cultural views surrounding adornment. Whereas the playful facet may appear diminished within the fashionable context, with its emphasis on treasured metals and gems, the factor of private expression stays central. This linguistic hyperlink reveals that the human need for ornamentation extends past practicality and standing, encompassing a basic want for aesthetic pleasure and self-representation. The evolution from “plaything” to a broader idea of decoration displays modifications in societal values and the rising complexity of knickknack’s symbolic which means over time. As an illustration, using signet rings bearing household crests transitioned from mere ornament to highly effective symbols of id and authority.
Inspecting “jocale” throughout the broader context of knickknack’s etymology reveals the enduring human fascination with private ornament. It reminds us that whereas supplies and methods evolve, the elemental drive to adorn oneself stems from a fancy interaction of social, cultural, and private motivations. This understanding permits for a deeper appreciation of the artistry and cultural significance embedded inside even the only piece of knickknack, connecting us to an extended historical past of human expression and the enduring energy of objects to convey which means.
3. Anglo-Norman
The Anglo-Norman time period “juelerie,” which means “assortment,” represents a pivotal stage within the etymological journey of “jewellery.” It bridges the hole between the sooner singular time period “jouel” and the trendy understanding of “jewellery” as encompassing each particular person items and curated assemblages. Inspecting “juelerie” provides important insights into the evolving cultural and social significance of decoration.
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Shift from Particular person Merchandise to Assortment
“Juelerie” signifies a transfer away from the singular “jouel” (plaything) in direction of the idea of collected wealth and standing displayed by means of a set of treasured objects. This shift displays a rising consciousness of knickknack’s potential for social signaling and the event of a extra subtle method to non-public adornment. The buildup of jewels possible turned a visual demonstration of wealth and status in Anglo-Norman society.
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Affect of Norman Conquest
The emergence of “juelerie” within the Anglo-Norman language displays the cultural alternate following the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. This fusion of Norman French and Outdated English influenced the event of the English language, together with the terminology associated to non-public adornment. “Juelerie” possible gained prominence throughout this era, reflecting the Norman aristocracy’s affect on English style and materials tradition.
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Improvement of Jewellery-Making Practices
The idea of “juelerie” suggests an rising specialization in jewelry-making practices. Because the demand for elaborate jewellery grew, expert artisans emerged, growing new methods and types to cater to the elite. The notion of a set implies not simply the buildup of things but additionally a concentrate on craftsmanship and artistry, additional enhancing the worth and status of those possessions.
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Precursor to Fashionable “Jewellery”
“Juelerie” serves because the direct ancestor of the trendy English phrase “jewellery,” solidifying its place within the etymological narrative. Whereas the which means has expanded over time to incorporate a broader vary of adornments, the core idea of curated collections stays. This linguistic hyperlink highlights the historic continuity of private adornment and the enduring human need to specific oneself by means of ornamental objects.
The examination of “juelerie” supplies essential context for understanding the origin of “jewellery.” It reveals how the idea of private adornment developed from particular person playthings to curated collections, reflecting broader social and cultural modifications. This understanding enriches our appreciation of the historic significance and enduring attraction of knickknack throughout completely different eras and societies.
4. Evolution to “jewelry”
Tracing the evolution to the spelling “jewelry” supplies a vital hyperlink in understanding the broader etymological journey of the phrase “jewellery.” This particular stage highlights the affect of language standardization and historic spelling conventions on the time period’s fashionable type. Inspecting this transition provides insights into how the phrase tailored throughout completely different linguistic intervals.
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Affect of Center English Orthography
The emergence of “jewelry” with a “ll” displays the orthographic conventions of Center English. Throughout this era, variations in spelling have been widespread, and the double “l” possible emerged as a typical type. This demonstrates how the phrase tailored to the evolving language and writing practices of the time. Many different phrases underwent related spelling modifications through the Center English interval, illustrating broader linguistic developments.
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Connection to Anglo-Norman “juelerie”
“Jewelry” retains a transparent hyperlink to the Anglo-Norman “juelerie.” The shift primarily concerned the adoption of the double “l” and the eventual alternative of the “ie” ending with “y.” This gradual transformation demonstrates the continual evolution of language and the affect of pronunciation shifts on spelling. The phonetic similarities between the 2 phrases spotlight this linguistic lineage.
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Variant Spellings and Regional Variations
The existence of variant spellings like “jewelry” (primarily British English) and “jewellery” (primarily American English) highlights the affect of regional language variations. These variations show how the phrase tailored throughout completely different geographical contexts whereas retaining its core which means. Different phrases show related transatlantic spelling variations, reflecting the divergence of American and British English.
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Standardization of Fashionable Spelling
The eventual standardization of “jewellery” in American English and “jewelry” in British English demonstrates the affect of dictionaries and formal writing conventions. Whereas each kinds stay in use, reflecting their respective regional dominance, the method of standardization displays efforts to codify language and set up constant spelling norms. This course of occurred throughout many phrases within the English language, reflecting a broader motion towards linguistic uniformity.
The evolution to “jewelry” supplies a priceless case examine in how phrases adapt and alter throughout completely different linguistic intervals and geographical areas. This particular stage within the phrase’s historical past emphasizes the affect of spelling conventions and the gradual standardization of language. By understanding this course of, we achieve a deeper appreciation for the dynamic nature of language and the historic forces that form the phrases we use right this moment. This exploration additional clarifies the general query of the place the phrase “jewellery” comes from, enriching our understanding of its etymology.
5. Fashionable English
The trendy English phrase “jewellery” represents the end result of an extended etymological journey, tracing its roots again by means of Anglo-Norman, Outdated French, and in the end to Latin. Understanding this historic improvement supplies essential context for appreciating the phrase’s present which means and cultural significance. The streamlined spelling, “jewellery,” displays the standardization of the English language, significantly in American English, contrasting with the British English retention of the double “l” in “jewelry.” This divergence exemplifies how language evolves throughout geographical areas whereas retaining a shared origin. The transition to “jewellery” additionally signifies a semantic broadening. Whereas the ancestral kinds usually referred to playthings or collections of treasured objects, the trendy time period encompasses a wider vary of adornments, together with these created from non-precious supplies. This growth displays altering social attitudes in direction of ornamentation and the democratization of style. The usage of “jewellery” in up to date contexts, from discussions of high-end diamonds to on a regular basis costume items, demonstrates this semantic breadth.
The sensible significance of understanding the etymology of “jewellery” lies in its capacity to boost cultural consciousness and appreciation for the artistry and symbolism embedded inside these objects. Recognizing the phrase’s connection to its historic predecessors permits for a deeper understanding of the enduring human fascination with private adornment. For instance, realizing the connection between “jocale” (plaything) and “jewellery” illuminates the intrinsic human need for aesthetic expression, extending past mere performance. Moreover, appreciating the evolution from “juelerie” (assortment) to “jewellery” supplies perception into the historic significance of these things as markers of standing and wealth, an idea nonetheless related in fashionable society. This historic consciousness can inform interpretations of knickknack in numerous cultural contexts, together with literature, artwork, and historic artifacts.
In conclusion, “jewellery” stands as a testomony to the dynamic nature of language and the enduring human fascination with adornment. Its etymology reveals a fancy interaction of linguistic, cultural, and social influences, shaping its present which means and utilization. Recognizing this historic journey permits for a extra nuanced understanding of the importance of knickknack in human societies throughout time and cultures. This exploration addresses not solely the query of the place the phrase “jewellery” comes from, but additionally why this understanding issues in appreciating the multifaceted function of private adornment all through historical past.
6. That means
The core which means of “jewellery”ornaments worn for private adornmentdirectly connects to its etymological journey. Whereas the phrase’s origins hint again to phrases like “jocale” and “jouel,” signifying “plaything,” the trendy understanding emphasizes the act of sporting these things. This semantic shift displays a vital evolution within the notion of knickknack from objects of amusement to integral elements of private type and social signaling. Historic Egyptian necklaces incorporating symbolic amulets, Roman brooches signifying social rank, and medieval rings indicating familial ties illustrate this transition. These historic examples show how the act of sporting remodeled jewellery into greater than mere ornament, imbuing these objects with cultural and private significance. The sensible implication of this shift is clear in fashionable contexts. Think about the deliberate selection of a marriage ring, a commencement pendant, or a culturally vital piece of knickknack. These alternatives underscore the continuing relevance of “ornaments worn” as a defining attribute of knickknack, highlighting its capability to convey particular person and collective which means.
The importance of “ornaments worn” is additional amplified when contemplating the various vary of supplies and types employed all through historical past. From easy shell beads utilized in prehistoric occasions to ornately crafted gold and gemstone items favored by royalty, the enduring attraction of knickknack stems from its capacity to boost private look and talk social messages. The selection of supplies usually mirrored obtainable assets and technological developments, whereas stylistic variations conveyed cultural affiliations, non secular beliefs, or particular person preferences. A recent instance may be discovered within the resurgence of sustainable and ethically sourced jewellery, demonstrating how fashionable values affect materials selections and design aesthetics. This interaction between materiality, type, and the act of sporting highlights the dynamic relationship between “jewellery” and its core which means.
In conclusion, the which means “ornaments worn” lies on the coronary heart of understanding the place the phrase “jewellery” comes from and what it represents right this moment. This idea connects the phrase’s playful origins to its up to date significance, highlighting the enduring human need for self-expression and social communication by means of private adornment. This understanding deepens appreciation for the artistry, cultural significance, and private which means embedded inside jewellery throughout numerous historic intervals and social contexts. Moreover, it acknowledges that whereas supplies, types, and cultural interpretations could evolve, the elemental act of sporting ornaments stays a strong expression of human id and aesthetic sensibility.
7. Semantic shift
The semantic shift from “plaything” to “adornment” is central to understanding the etymology of “jewellery.” This evolution displays altering cultural perceptions and the rising complexity of knickknack’s operate all through historical past. Tracing this shift illuminates not solely the phrase’s origins but additionally the evolving social and private significance of ornamental objects.
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Early Associations with Amusement and Delight
The Latin “jocale” and Outdated French “jouel,” each which means “plaything,” recommend that early types of jewellery have been related to amusement and pleasure. This preliminary connotation emphasizes the intrinsic human need for ornamentation past mere practicality, foreshadowing the later emphasis on aesthetic expression and social signaling. Examples embrace historic Roman ornamental hairpins and easy beaded necklaces, probably worn for private enjoyment and visible attraction moderately than solely for symbolic functions.
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Transition to Markers of Standing and Id
As societies developed, jewellery more and more served as markers of social standing, wealth, and id. This transition marked a shift from the playful connotations of “jocale” and “jouel” in direction of a extra severe operate. The adoption of treasured metals and gems, usually integrated into elaborate designs, signified wealth and energy. Medieval signet rings bearing household crests exemplify this shift, remodeling private adornment into a logo of lineage and authority.
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Emergence of Symbolic and Ritualistic Meanings
Jewellery additionally acquired symbolic and ritualistic meanings, additional distancing it from its earlier affiliation with mere playthings. Amulets, non secular pendants, and ceremonial jewellery turned imbued with non secular and cultural significance. Egyptian scarab beetles carved from treasured stones, believed to supply safety and good luck, exemplify this evolution. These objects transcended ornamental functions, serving as tangible connections to perception programs and cultural practices.
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Fashionable Emphasis on Private Expression and Style
In up to date society, jewellery continues to evolve as a type of private expression and style. Whereas the connotations of standing and symbolism stay related, particular person type and aesthetic preferences play a major function in jewellery selections. The wide selection of supplies, designs, and value factors obtainable displays this emphasis on private expression, permitting people to curate their adornments to mirror their distinctive identities and tastes.
The semantic shift from “plaything” to “adornment” encapsulates the complicated historical past of knickknack and its evolving significance in human societies. This journey displays altering cultural values, technological developments, and the enduring human need for self-expression and social communication by means of ornamental objects. Understanding this semantic evolution supplies essential context for appreciating the multifaceted function of knickknack in each historic and up to date contexts, enriching our interpretation of its which means throughout completely different cultures and time intervals.
8. Displays altering cultural values
The etymology of “jewellery” displays altering cultural values surrounding adornment. The phrase’s journey from “plaything” (Latin “jocale”) to its fashionable which means demonstrates a shift in how societies understand and make the most of these ornamental objects. Initially, jewellery could have primarily served as a supply of amusement or easy aesthetic enhancement. Nonetheless, as cultures developed, so did the importance of knickknack. The incorporation of treasured metals and gems elevated its standing, reflecting rising emphasis on wealth and social standing. The usage of signet rings displaying household crests exemplifies this shift, remodeling jewellery into a logo of lineage and authority. Moreover, the emergence of amulets and non secular pendants demonstrates how jewellery turned imbued with non secular and cultural which means, reflecting evolving perception programs and ritualistic practices. This development demonstrates a transparent cause-and-effect relationship between cultural values and the evolving operate of knickknack.
The significance of “displays altering cultural values” as a element of understanding the origin of “jewellery” lies in its capacity to light up the dynamic relationship between language and tradition. The phrase itself turns into a historic artifact, encapsulating altering societal attitudes towards adornment. As an illustration, the adoption of the time period “juelerie” in Anglo-Norman occasions, signifying a set, suggests a rising emphasis on the buildup of wealth and the show of standing by means of curated assemblages of treasured objects. This linguistic improvement displays a shift in cultural priorities and supplies priceless insights into the social dynamics of the time. Equally, the trendy utilization of “jewellery” encompasses a broader vary of supplies and types, reflecting the democratization of style and the rising emphasis on particular person expression.
In conclusion, tracing the etymology of “jewellery” provides a singular lens by means of which to look at altering cultural values. The phrase’s semantic journey, from plaything to adornment imbued with social, financial, and non secular significance, demonstrates a transparent hyperlink between language and cultural evolution. Understanding this connection supplies priceless context for deciphering the function of knickknack in several historic intervals and throughout numerous cultures. It highlights the enduring human apply of utilizing adornment to specific id, talk social messages, and mirror prevailing cultural values. This information enhances our appreciation for the artistry and symbolism embedded inside jewellery, reminding us that these objects are usually not merely ornamental but additionally highly effective reflections of human historical past and cultural expression.
Often Requested Questions
This FAQ part addresses widespread inquiries relating to the origin of the phrase “jewellery,” offering concise and informative responses based mostly on established etymological analysis.
Query 1: Is “jewellery” associated to the phrase “jewel”?
Sure, “jewellery” is immediately derived from “jewel.” “Jewel” itself originates from the Outdated French “jouel,” which means “plaything,” in the end stemming from the Latin “jocale.” “Jewellery” developed from the Anglo-Norman “juelerie,” denoting a set of jewels.
Query 2: Why are there two spellings: “jewellery” and “jewelry”?
The variant spellings mirror regional variations in language evolution. “Jewellery” is the usual American English spelling, whereas “jewelry” is prevalent in British English. Each spellings hint again to the identical Anglo-Norman root, “juelerie.” The divergence displays historic variations in spelling conventions.
Query 3: Did the which means of “jewellery” all the time relate to treasured supplies?
Not initially. The unique which means of “jouel” encompassed playthings, not essentially manufactured from treasured supplies. The affiliation with treasured metals and gems developed later as jewellery turned a marker of social standing and wealth.
Query 4: How did the which means of “jewellery” evolve over time?
The which means transitioned from “plaything” to embody a broader vary of ornaments worn for private adornment. This evolution displays altering cultural values and the rising complexity of knickknack’s operate, encompassing social signaling, symbolic illustration, and private expression.
Query 5: What does the time period “juelerie” signify within the phrase’s historical past?
“Juelerie,” the Anglo-Norman ancestor of “jewellery,” signifies a set of jewels. This time period marks a shift from the singular “jouel” to the idea of collected wealth and curated assemblages of treasured objects, reflecting a growing appreciation for jewellery past particular person items.
Query 6: Why is knowing the etymology of “jewellery” vital?
Understanding the etymology supplies priceless insights into the cultural and historic significance of knickknack. It reveals how societies have perceived and utilized these objects all through historical past, reflecting altering values, social constructions, and creative practices.
By exploring these incessantly requested questions, one positive factors a deeper appreciation for the wealthy historical past and cultural significance embedded throughout the phrase “jewellery.” This etymological journey illuminates the enduring human fascination with private adornment and the evolving function of those ornamental objects in human societies.
This etymological exploration supplies a basis for additional investigation into associated subjects, such because the historical past of jewelry-making methods, the cultural significance of particular jewellery sorts, and the continuing evolution of knickknack in up to date society.
Understanding Jewellery By way of Etymology
Exploring the origin of “jewellery” provides priceless insights past easy phrase historical past. These insights can inform buying selections, improve appreciation for historic items, and deepen understanding of cultural symbolism.
Tip 1: Think about historic context when evaluating vintage jewellery. Information of the phrase’s evolution, from “plaything” to adornment signifying standing, can inform assessments of an merchandise’s historic significance and potential worth. A chunk from the Georgian period, for instance, carries completely different connotations than a Victorian mourning brooch, reflecting distinct cultural values and practices.
Tip 2: Acknowledge the cultural significance of particular jewellery sorts. Understanding the symbolism related to sure items, like marriage ceremony rings or non secular pendants, enriches appreciation for his or her cultural weight and enduring traditions. Egyptian scarab beetle jewellery, for example, carries symbolic which means rooted in historic beliefs about safety and rebirth.
Tip 3: Respect the artistry and craftsmanship concerned in jewellery manufacturing. Recognizing the evolution of jewelry-making methods, from historic metalworking to fashionable gemological practices, permits for larger appreciation of the ability and artistry embedded inside every bit. The intricate filigree work of a Renaissance necklace, for instance, showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of the interval.
Tip 4: Make knowledgeable selections when buying jewellery. Understanding the supplies, historic context, and cultural significance of knickknack empowers shoppers to make extra knowledgeable buying selections, aligning selections with private values and aesthetic preferences. Selecting ethically sourced gems, for instance, displays a rising consciousness of sustainability and honest labor practices.
Tip 5: Improve communication about jewellery by means of exact language. Using correct terminology, knowledgeable by etymological understanding, enhances communication when discussing jewellery with collectors, specialists, or fanatics. Distinguishing between a “cabochon” and a “faceted” gemstone, for instance, demonstrates a deeper understanding of gemological terminology.
Tip 6: Develop a deeper appreciation for the enduring human fascination with adornment. Exploring the etymology of “jewellery” connects us to an extended historical past of human expression and the continuing need to boost private look and talk social messages by means of ornamental objects. This consciousness enriches our understanding of knickknack’s function in human societies throughout numerous cultures and historic intervals.
By making use of the following tips, one can transfer past a superficial understanding of knickknack to a deeper appreciation for its historic, cultural, and creative significance. These insights enrich not solely private interactions with jewellery but additionally broader understanding of human tradition and self-expression.
This exploration of sensible purposes units the stage for concluding remarks on the significance of etymological consciousness in totally appreciating the multifaceted world of knickknack.
Conclusion
The exploration of “the place does the phrase jewellery come from” reveals a multifaceted journey by means of language and historical past. From the playful connotations of the Latin “jocale” to the trendy understanding of “jewellery” as adornment imbued with social, cultural, and private significance, the phrase’s evolution mirrors the altering function of those ornamental objects in human societies. Key phases on this etymological journey, together with the Outdated French “jouel,” the Anglo-Norman “juelerie,” and the emergence of variant spellings like “jewelry,” illuminate the linguistic and cultural forces shaping the time period’s fashionable type and which means. This exploration underscores the dynamic relationship between language, tradition, and the objects that adorn us.
The etymological understanding of “jewellery” supplies a vital framework for appreciating the artistry, symbolism, and cultural significance embedded inside these objects. This information empowers knowledgeable selections relating to the acquisition, appreciation, and interpretation of knickknack throughout numerous historic intervals and cultural contexts. Continued exploration of the historic and cultural dimensions of private adornment guarantees deeper insights into the enduring human fascination with jewellery and its evolving function in human self-expression and social communication. This etymological journey serves not as a remaining vacation spot however as a place to begin for additional exploration into the wealthy and sophisticated world of knickknack.
