When Did Nose Rings Become Popular?
When did nose rings become so popular?
Piercing may seem trendy now because almost everybody wants to get one, especially in non-conventional places, other than the ear lobe. However, the history of piercing dates as far back as 5000 years ago in the Middle East. It represented several things, like prostitution, rebellion, wealth, culture, class…and then the past few centuries became more acceptable as a fashion accessory.
Nose piercing, now the second most popular body piercing, has been around for a long- long time since the aboriginals wore bone through their nasal spectrum. Today, nose piercing has evolved and people pierce different parts of the nose, from high nostrils to septril piercing. In fact, it seems to be the trendiest piercing now that more and more people are doing it.
Starting to dig nose piercing too? You may be wondering…when did nose rings become popular in the first place? You’ll soon find out. In this article, we’ll give you a background on how nose piercing started, what it meant, and how it became a popular face modification in recent times.
Read through!
When Did Nose Rings Become Popular? A Timeline of Nose Jewelry’s History
Nose jewelry, studs or nose rings, did not just happen out of nowhere. Records show that the use of nose jewelry existed in several regions before it finally became a thing in the western world.
Here is a brief run through the history of nose rings to answer your question- “How did nose rings become popular?;
BC Period to Pre 16th Century -Biblical references & Middle East Tradition
You may find it unbelievable, but the first use of nose rings was traced to the Holy Bible. According to research done by a dermatologist, Dr. Barry Ladizinski, Nose rings were first recorded in the book of Genesis when Abraham's son, Issac gifted Rebekah, his bride, a Shanf. Although Shanf was interpreted to be a golden earring, another translation of the Hebrew term is "nose ring".
Stemming from that, people in some regions continued the tradition of grooms gifting their brides to be golden nose rings. The practice was rampant with the Bedouin tribes in the Middle East and the Berber and the Beja African tribes. The nose rings were valuable and usually sold by the wives to cater for themselves when their husbands die, or the marriage gets nullified.
Middle Eastern and African families also add nose rings as a part of their daughters' dowries. They would usually measure the wealth of the husband's family by the nose ring size and value.
The 1500s- Nose Piercing In India- The Healing Powers Of Nose Piercing
Much later in the 16th century, the use of the nose ring was brought to India by the Mughal emperors. At some point, piercing the nostrils in India was an indication of a woman's submissiveness. It was also a symbol of puberty, class, religion, tribe, beauty, and sometimes, rebellion.
Nose piercing to Indians was also a medicinal practice to make childbirth easier. According to Ayurveda, a natural healing practice, certain parts of the nostril are associated with the reproductive organs of females. Piercing such parts of the nose was said to bring relief to women during childbirth and also reduce menstrual pain. To this day, females in India still pierce their nostrils to benefit from Ayurveda.
Piercing the nostril in India is also done to honor the Hindu Goddess of fertility, Parvati. In the Hindu religion, there is no restriction on which women can wear nose rings. However, the girls usually have their noses pierced when they clock 16, the marriageable age. Women who lose their husbands usually remove their nose rings upon their husband's death.
The 20th Century- Nose Piercing Comes To The Western World
Nose piercing, as popular as it was in the other regions, never came into the Western World until the late 19th century. French singer, Polaire was said to be the first to rock the nose ring during a US tour. Still, there wasn't so much popularity for nose piercing until after 50 years when hippies brought the practice from India.
Hippies, true to their unconventional lifestyle and fashion, came back from a visit to India with a nose piercing. Decades later, more people in the US joined the hippie community and were widely known for piercing their noses.
At first, it didn't sit well with the majority, as the hippies were tagged to be rebels, recognized by their nose piercings especially. Goths and Punks also adopted the so-called rebellious symbol and pierced their nose to defy those who were against the counterculture.
Nose Piercing Today
Despite the initial hostility to nose piercing, many people now see it as a fashionable practice. That is mostly because nose piercing is common among influential groups, like musicians and other creatives. They are seen and admired by their fans, who trust their choices and emulate them.
Are Nose Rings Still Popular Today?
Nose piercing is still in vogue today and even more recognized than it was in the past. As of 2018, 19% of women and 15% of men in the US had at least a nose piercing. The practice was popular during that period, but not nearly as trendy as it is in recent times.
Today, nose piercing is no longer an "Indian thing" or merely a cultural practice. It is a fashion for several people- an aesthetic to beautify their faces. And as you know, fashion spreads, especially when it is being promoted, consciously or unconsciously, by influential lots.
More people are on popular social media platforms and can easily see the trend and jump on the moving train.
Should I Get My Nose Pierced?
In a world where piercing is accepted by many and more are willing to adopt it, we say- Why not? Piercing means different things to different people, but for the most part, it is a beautiful addition that attracts lots of attention and admiration.
If you're skeptical about getting a piercing for safety reasons, there is really nothing to worry about. Nose rings are safe regardless of which part of the nose you pierce as long as you follow very simple practices. See some safety tips to help when you have your piercing done;
Take care of your piercing to avoid infections
It usually takes between weeks and a few months for a nose piercing to heal completely. During the earlier periods, the piercing will be inflamed, painful, and prone to infection. Clean your piercing twice daily to prevent issues and speed up the healing process.
Clean your nose rings properly
Like earrings, nose rings, when used for a while, may accumulate dust, oil, and other particles. If not taken care of, the build-up in the nose ring may start to smell bad. Most times, you will not notice the smell or deposit until you remove them. That is why we advise that you clean your nose ring properly when cleaning the piercing.
Use quality nose rings
What's the point of getting a nose piercing without a stylish and authentic jewelry piece to adorn it? Your nose piercing is never complete without a ring or stud and not just any nose rings or stud -Quality jewelry pieces only! That reduces the risk of irritation and also helps you remain in vogue.
Get Quality, Authentic Diamond Nose Rings at Roy Jewels
Looking for where to get your dream nose rings? Explore the collection of real diamond rose rings today for quality, authentic, and vogue jewelry pieces. They are available in different shapes, sizes, and finishes to reflect your style in the best possible way.
When Did Nose Rings Become so Popular? Wrapping Things up
To summarize our article on "When did nose rings become popular?"
Nose rings did not just pop out of nowhere to become the trend in this present age. They have been around since 5000 years ago and only came into the Western World in the 20th century.
In our opinion, nose piercing will continue to be popular for a long time because it is practically everywhere. More and more people will discover, fall in love with a nose piercing, and join the trend as time goes on.
Did you enjoy reading our article on "When did nose rings become so popular?" Do not hesitate to shop for the best quality nose jewelry pieces at Roy Jewels. We have just the piece you need to up your jewelry game.