Bangles are a timeless accessory that has been worn by women around the world for centuries. The history of bangles is rich and diverse and has evolved to reflect the culture, fashion, and traditions of different societies. Here is a timeline of the history of bangles:
Prehistoric Era: Archaeological evidence suggests that bangles were worn by women in ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia and Egypt as early as 5000 BCE. These bangles were made of various materials, including stone, shell, and bone.
Indus Valley Civilization (2600 BCE-1900 BCE): The Indus Valley Civilization is one of the oldest civilizations in the world and is known for its rich culture and traditions. Bangle-making was a popular craft during this time, and bangles made of gold, silver, and precious stones were worn by women as a symbol of prosperity and social status.
Maurya Empire (321 BCE-185 BCE): The Maurya Empire was a powerful empire in ancient India that is known for its art, culture, and architecture. During this time, bangles were made of various materials such as copper, bronze, and ivory, and were adorned with intricate designs and motifs.
Mughal Empire (1526-1857): The Mughal Empire was a period of great cultural and artistic development in India. Bangle-making was a popular craft during this time, and bangles made of gold, silver, and precious stones were worn by women as a symbol of wealth and status. The Mughals introduced the tradition of wearing bangles on both hands, which is still popular in India today.
Victorian Era (1837-1901): During the Victorian Era, bangles were worn as a fashion accessory, and were often made of materials such as ivory, bone, and tortoise shell. The bangles were usually narrow and decorated with intricate designs and engravings.
Art Deco Era (the 1920s-1930s): The Art Deco Era was a period of great artistic and cultural development, and bangles were a popular fashion accessory during this time. Bangle-making became more industrialized, and mass-produced bangles made of materials such as Bakelite and celluloid were introduced.
Hippie Era (the 1960s-1970s): The Hippie Era was a period of social and cultural change, and bangles became a popular symbol of the counterculture movement. The bangles were often made of natural materials such as wood, bone, and seashells, and were worn in stacks or mixed with other accessories.
Modern Era (1980s-present): In the modern era, bangles have become a popular fashion accessory, worn by women of all ages and cultures. Bangle-making has become more diversified, with bangles made of materials such as plastic, acrylic, and silicone being introduced. Bangles are often worn in stacks or mixed with other accessories to create a personalized and unique look.
In conclusion, the history of bangles is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of humans throughout time. From ancient civilizations to modern times, bangles have evolved to reflect the culture, fashion, and traditions of different societies. Today, bangles continue to be a popular fashion accessory and are worn by women around the world as a symbol of style, individuality, and empowerment.