Piercing is a form of body modification that involves puncturing or cutting a body part and inserting a jewel through it to make the body look more attractive.Though the history on piercing is not clear, ample evidences exist to document that both the sexes have been practicing piercing since ancient times throughout the world. As per Indian mythology, Gods and Goddesses used to pierce their noses and ear lobes. Nose piercing is mentioned in Bible (Genesis 24:22). Nose piercing was practiced among the nomadic Berber and Beja tribes of Africa, and the Bedouins of the Middle East. Body piercing, in 1920s and 1960s was biggest trend in the United States of America.
Since the ancient time till now, body piercing has been an inevitable part of human life. Previously practiced for spiritual reasons, piercing has now become a fashion trend and style statement around the globe.
There are various types of piercings, among them ear lobe piercing, nose piercing, eyebrow piercing, tongue piercing, lip labret piercing and Septum piercing are famous today.
Ear Lobe Piercing
Ear Lobe was the first attempt to practice piercing by mankind due to its ease of practice. Ears were probably first pierced for magical purposes as many primitive tribes believed that demons could enter the body through the ear. Because demons and spirits are supposed to be repelled by metal, ear-piercing was thought to prevent them from entering the body.
Ear Piercing is a universal practice for both the sexes, except for the western society where they deem it effeminate. History reveals that many men wore elaborate earrings. During Elizabethan Era, famous men including Shakespeare, Sir Walter Raleigh and Francis Drake wore gold earrings. David Beckham, Justin Bieber and Adam Lambertwore ear lobe piercings.
Nose Piercing
Leonardo Da Vinci believed that the nose set the character of the whole face. Nose being the most prominent feature of the face, nose piercing is very attractive and common. Nose piercing has its references in Bible and was practiced by Africans and Middle East mogul emperors. In the west, nose piercing first appeared among the hippies who travelled to India in the late 1960’s.
Nose piercing has now become the most adopted piercing practice. Youth, especially those with punk attitude, have their nose pierced. Celebs like Madonna, Lenny Kravitz, Sinead O’Connor, and Slash from Guns & Roses have their nose pierced.
Tongue Piercing
Tongue piercing was practised in a ritual form by the ancient Aztecs, Mayas of Central America and the Haida, Kwakiutul, and Tlinglit tribes of the American Northwest. It became one of most famous popular piercings. It’s provocative, shocking and fascinating for oral sex. It has an added benefit that no one can get an idea until you open your mouth. Janet Jackson, Keith Flint from Prodigy, Mel B from the Spice Girls and Malcolm Jamahl Warner from the Cosby show all sport pierced tongues.
Lip Labret Piercing
The word Labret is derived form Latin Labrum meaning Lip. Piercing on the lip (generally lower lip) is known as labret piercing. Among the ancient Aztecs and Mayank, labret piercing was reserved for male members of the higher castes. They wore beautiful labrets crafted with pure gold. An object inserted into labret adds to the impression and beauty of the wearer. They are famous. The common scenario reveals that women prefer it more than men do.
Septum Piercing
Septum piercings are less common than nostril piercings. The nasal septum is the dividing wall between the nostrils.Many people prefer septum piercing over nostril piercing. The primary reason being that piercing can be starched and big jewel can be inserted. The modern day Cuna Indians of Panama continue this practice by wearing thick pure gold rings in their septum.
No matter where their roots hail, piercing has always been one of the favourite practices of fashionable people. It adds beauty and glimpse of glitter to your face when you go public with any part of your body pierced !
