Nose studs trace their ancestry back to 15th Century India

September 09, 2004
By:  Lori Wilkerson

Nose studs today are worn by women in all walks of life, but their history is from India, where in the 15th and 16th centuries they became the traditional ornament of choice for married women. At that time, it became a sign that a woman was married, and only women honored with a spouse were allowed to wear nose studs.

These nose studs, called phul, were always in the left nostril, and were usually of sterling silver or 18 karat gold and often contained a gemstone. Over time, some women began to wear more elaborately decorated nose studs, some with flat heads that were then inscribed with elaborate scrollwork and patterns. The Indian nose studs had screws that fastened on the inside to hold the studs in place. Some women also wore rings.

For very special occasions, Indian women today often wear nose rings rather than their every day nose studs. These are sometimes elaborate and large, and can be attached by chains to jeweled hair decorations that help hold the gold rings flat against the face.

When you slide your next nose studs into place, keep in mind the rich heritage that comes with them.

About the Author:
Lori Wilkerson is a successful freelance writer and publisher of http://www.body-jewelry-useek.com.  Body jewelry, piercing and tattooing information you seek to perfectly adorn your body.

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