††Jewellery is rings, necklaces, brooches and other ornaments made with precious stones to be worn by people. Primitive jewellery was made by early people who used materials such as stones and shells to decorate themselves. The Mesopotamians were one of the earliest peoples to use precious metals to make jewellery in 3500 to 2000 BC. From that time onwards, jewellery became a sign of wealth, and the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans all developed their own extravagant styles. Throughout the centuries, jewellery has been valued for a variety of reasons. In times of crisis, it was better to own jewellery than money as it was easier to hide and money could lose its value more quickly. Some forms of jewellery also had a religious significance. During the Middle Ages jewellery was often made in monasteries, and used in religious ceremonies.
