We often see celebrities sporting religious jewelry on and off the red carpet. How can you capitalize on this trend of showcasing your religion without offending passerbys? Check out this great background and these helpful tips from Felicia!

Photo from LightMetals

Since the beginning of time, jewelry has played an important role in society. People have used jewelry as money, artwork and status and religious symbols. Today, metallurgists and artisans continue to shape precious metals and other natural items into hairpins, toe rings and anything in between. We are all used to thinking about wearing jewelry to add a bit of fashion into our everyday outfits, but jewelry’s history as a symbol of power or religious devotion should still be considered. Follow these tips on how, when and where to accessorize with religious jewelry and you’ll be set to showcase your beliefs in the best way possible.

How to Wear Religious Jewelry

Women wear heirloom pins to commemorate special occasions. A cross, Star of David, pentagram or Allah pendant associates one with the religion of his or her choice. These pieces are have sacred meanings and need to be approached with respect. Wearing religious jewelry without the proper care can cause accidental offense. If you are scantily clad it’s best not to wear items like cross necklaces or Stars of David. Additionally, adapting a burka or sari in a way that wasn’t intended could also become offensive quickly. It’s great to experiment with fashion, especially cross-cultural pieces. But when it comes to religious symbols – keep it traditional.

Where to Wear Religious Jewelry

Even if you wear a religious symbol as a fashion accent, someone might misconstrue your intentions and judge you based on what they see. Exercise sensitivity to your surroundings and to the people whom you meet by avoiding displaying religious jewelry during the following social situations.

• On an job interview
• While traveling in areas where openly displaying religions is not part of local customs
• During jury duty or other judicial obligation
• When meeting a significant other’s family
• Consider your work environment before wearing jewelry into the office

When to Wear Religious Jewelry

Many families have traditions surrounding jewelry. It’s an American tradition to give your daughter her birthstone on her 16th birthday. Many southern families feel that a girl’s first diamond, no matter how small, should come from her father. Older family members can make a point of handing down family jewelry on special occasions such as births, graduations, engagements or especially exciting news. No one of these traditions are initially religious, but religious jewelry generally has an even deeper tie to its wearer. Families may hand down an heirloom rosary when a son or daughter is confirmed, the same could happen with a treasured veil pin or ohm pendant.

Felicia Baratz is a freelance writer and style enthusiast living in Indianapolis, IN. As a contributor to beltsandbangles.com, she discusses the latest trends in fashion – including her interest in religious jewelry. When she isn’t writing, she can be found having philosophical conversations with her friends concerning a plethora of faith-based topics.