History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c34.1

v1.c34.1

Love for Beauty is an inherent quality in all human beings. It is this aesthetic impulse which prompts an individual to create, possess and enjoy all that is beautiful. Jewellery is, no doubt, an aid to personal beauty and this is probably the reason that the art of jewellery has all through been associated with the development of human civilizations. Besides, jewellery has also been considered as an insignia of personal status. Even the icons of gods and goddesses are provided with numerous jewels and jewellery. With ancient pastoral society of India, the herds of cows, large stables of horses, elephants and precious gems were recognised as the four main treasures. Hence, the possession of costly gems and jewellery and its luxurious use on festive and ceremonial occasions in India have been associated with the rank and status of its owner in the society.