It’s interesting to know that the word “pendant” comes from Latin and French. “Pendere” is the word in Latin while “Pendr” is the old word French people used. Both bear the idea of “to hang down.” The modern word in French is a gerund form, “pendre”. This means both “to hang” and “during.”Traditionally, it means (or commonly known as “pendant necklaces”) that are jewelry that loosely hangs from necklaces.
These attach through small loops or clamps. However, pendant necklaces are not the only form that jewelry makers design and create. We can also see pendant earrings. These are earrings that have additional pieces hanging downwards.
Pendants designs and attachments vary. At times, it’s hard to notice the separation. Some are fully incorporated into the necklace, making it seem like an actual part of the necklace and not separate at all. Regularly though, pendants are standalone pieces that are quick to notice.
Did you know that pendants are one of the oldest kinds of adornment for the body? In ancient times, people made these from a shell, stone, pottery, and other perishable materials that were accessible during the time. Ancient Egyptians are iconic for wearing pendants that have hieroglyphs for shapes.
Those unique accessories are designed for so many functions. Some of which are:
Basic ornamentation. People wear them for style and beauty and as jewelry accents.
Award. People design them for significant events or achievements, like a Scouting Ireland Chief Scout’s award or an Order of CuChulainn award.
Status Symbol Depending on the design and materials used, pendants can show people your financial status or level in society.
Identification necklaces can declare membership in a specific group. It can also exhibit religious symbols and signify religious beliefs. It can show an affinity for a certain person, thing, principle, or group.
Protection Some designs invoke supernatural protection, like amulets and religious markings.
Self-affirmation Some necklaces summon assurance or persuasion. These come in the form of initials, names, and more. Necklaces come in different cuts and look. Lockets are precious types that open and display a photo or imagery of a loved one. Others, like pendilias, may hang from a large piece of metalwork.
Necklaces types come in different types too, depending upon a specific function or purpose:
-Amulets, for instance, are wearables that you put around your neck, arm, or legs. As these are deemed to possess spiritual or magical power, it’s important that they are worn around the person in order to shield the wearer from wicked influences or danger. Additionally, talismans are pendants that are similar to amulets. These are considered to provide supernatural shielding to the wearer and provides some powers or abilities.
-Medallions are those coin-shaped pendants you see. These may latch onto a necklace or onto a piece of clothing. Pendants for awards and recognitions are often medallions in type.
-Lockets, as mentioned above, look like cases or enclosures that contain a small photo or item inside. People can put a lock of hair, a small photograph, and other miniature items to establish a connection to a beloved or to remind themselves of a loved one. These attach to necklaces or bracelets.
Other less commonly seen maybe painting pendants and traveler’s sundial necklaces. Painting pendants are one of two paired or connected paintings, while traveler’s sundial pendants are portable astronomical rings that can tell the time in reference to the sun. Other navigational instruments can also be made as pendants. Some tools like Maori pounamu can be in the form of a pendant. In the modern age of the 21st century, it is usual to see USB flash drives as pendants.