When I was a kid, I remember my folks had a subscription to “National Geographic” magazine. I loved looking at pictures of the wild animals wandering the wilderness or marveling at photos of the native people doing their day to day chores without the aid of modern technology. An image that has remained in my mind for decades is a photo of a native woman wearing a necklace so tall that it had lifted her head right off of her shoulders. Apparently, this practice was the traditional marking for social status much like bones through the nose in other tribes. She was royalty.
As a child the elders began slowly stretching the poor princess's neck by creating stacking necklaces that were designed to hold her head as straight and high as possible. By the time the girl reached her teens, if the necklaces were removed, her head would topple over and she would suffocate. I think I would rather be a peasant in this particular social system!
Necklaces have been used for more than jewelry throughout history and cultures. Usually a social status symbol, many extraordinary necklaces and jewels brought to the attention of the masses by royalty or the famous have moved on to become works of art and are housed under lock and key in a guarded gallery. The Taylor-Burton diamond made famous by Elizabeth Taylor is an example of such a marvel. The Hope Diamond is another example.
As much fun as the “neck-stretcher” appeared to be, and priceless jewels I will never have...I think I'll stick with a simple chain necklace.
As a child the elders began slowly stretching the poor princess's neck by creating stacking necklaces that were designed to hold her head as straight and high as possible. By the time the girl reached her teens, if the necklaces were removed, her head would topple over and she would suffocate. I think I would rather be a peasant in this particular social system!
Necklaces have been used for more than jewelry throughout history and cultures. Usually a social status symbol, many extraordinary necklaces and jewels brought to the attention of the masses by royalty or the famous have moved on to become works of art and are housed under lock and key in a guarded gallery. The Taylor-Burton diamond made famous by Elizabeth Taylor is an example of such a marvel. The Hope Diamond is another example.
As much fun as the “neck-stretcher” appeared to be, and priceless jewels I will never have...I think I'll stick with a simple chain necklace.