The Torque Bangle – A (Very) Brief History
One of the fabulous things about modern-day jewellery is what has come before it. That most rich and varied history of human decoration and adornment, the meaning given to that jewellery in times gone by, and the lifestyle it implies of the wearer. Of all the items in jeweller’s windows today, one of the most important to consider in terms of its history is the simple gold torque (torc) bangle. While your eyes my dart over this unassuming item of wrist wear, moving quickly onto more sparkly pieces, torques have been expertly made and worn by humans for thousands of years. The torque was a status symbol, a sign of wealth and nobility, it denoted a brave warrior. It is one of the oldest and most enduring styles of jewellery to have ever existed.