We often see that jewelry trends last longer than those in clothing and other fashion. Skull jewelry is a trend that has been in fashion for years and will continue in the same way. Usually, the Halloween season is the peak time when skull jewelry trends.
Although it is a trending item, several communities in the world oppose wearing skulls. So, we have both types of people, some wearing skull jewelry and others who are against it. In this article, we will break down the trend of skull jewelry.
What does Skull Jewelry Symbolize?
The skull is one of the ancient symbols which is domineering, powerful, and instantly recognizable. These potent characteristics forced mankind to incorporate them into every form of fashion. People wearing jewelry, such as stainless steel skull rings, skull bracelets, and other accessories, reflect how they have embraced this symbol as a vital part of fashion.
Being an age-old symbol of royalty and power, skull jewelry was worn by kings and queens. Several cultures used the skull as a good luck charm. They believed that a skull had the power to ward off disease and protect the wearers from different evil spirits. The following are some perceptions of people and communities associated with the skull:
Fashion and Appeal
The reason for many people wearing skull jewelry is simply the fashion appeal of the accessories. Some men and women have even purchased gold and silver designer skull rings with precious diamonds or gemstones to flaunt their expensive taste.
Unlike most jewelry that detracts from a man’s masculinity, skull jewelry enhances it due to its bold design. By recognizing this, most companies have taken advantage of the symbol’s versatility. They supply jewelry featuring bold insignia for a costly price.
From fashion icons and celebrities to ordinary people, everyone can use skull jewelry with their favorite clothing and accessories.
Versatility
For many users, the versatility of the appearance and structure adds to the appeal of skull jewelry. Some jewelry designers use the skull as their own design, whereas others creatively integrate the structure into complex art pieces. Features of the skull are seamlessly integrated with the following components –
1. Crossbones – They symbolize eternity, poison, or danger.
2. Crosses – They represent mankind’s beginning.
3. Butterflies – They signify the changing nature of life.
4. Snakes – They portray knowledge of the next world and/or a depiction of immortality.
5. Wings – They signify the freedom of the dead from their physical form into a free spiritual entity.
Celebration of Life
Ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and the Aztecs considered the skull as a sign of the cycle of death and rebirth. Hence, the concept was treated with deep respect. Also, some people wear skull jewelry to celebrate their loved ones’ past lives. This can be proof of their belief in life after death. People use accessories with skulls to represent a celebration of their own life or a representation of their transformation or rebirth.
Toughness and Bravery
During the Elizabethan Period in Europe, skull rings featuring a ‘Death’s Head Skull’, indicated that the wearer was a part of the societal underworld. Inspired by this symbolism, today’s motorcycle gangs and gun clubs that are infamous for being ‘rebellious outcasts’, usually wear skull jewelry to signify their membership. This development of the skull’s portrayal as a sign of toughness and bravery has been conveyed to the broader modern society. Today, men get skull tattoos and wear skull rings to increase confidence, show masculinity, and display inner strength.
Symbol of Power
In the 15th century, the skull appeared as a fashion statement for the very first time. Philosophers like Plato and Tibetan monks originally considered the skull as a symbol of power. The skull became popular as ‘memento mori’ – an icon people wore as a reminder of their own mortality. Today, it may sound strange, but back then, death didn’t have the negative implications it has presently in western cultures. Rather, it portrayed the natural circle of life, including the transition into the afterlife — under the shielding of a range of mighty and powerful gods.
We hope you have understood that people have their own perceptions about skull jewelry. If you are someone who feels that there’s nothing wrong with wearing skulls, choose from the wide range of skull rings for yourself from Drippy Style!
