In recent costume dramas like “Da Feng Da Geng Ren,” it’s noticeable that many female characters wear the same style of necklace. Is this a trend from a specific historical period? And don’t they mind wearing identical pieces?
The answer lies in the term “Yingluo.” Derived from the words “Ying” and “Luo,” which originally referred to beautiful jade, Yingluo now signifies a multi – gemstone ornament. It’s not just limited to necklaces but can also adorn armbands and shawls. In Buddhism, Yingluo symbolizes worldly treasures and is known as “infinite light,” often appearing in U or V – shaped necklaces with multiple layers.
Historical texts like “The Dream of the Red Chamber” and “Jin Men Yang Shi” mention Yingluo made from gold, silver, pearls, and other precious materials. During the Sui Dynasty, Yingluo was long and simple, but by the Tang Dynasty, it became shorter, more intricate, and highly popular among noblewomen. The trend influenced fashion, with materials ranging from jade to amber.
Poets like Liu Yuxi and Yuan Zhen documented its popularity, and by the Ming Dynasty, Yingluo evolved into necklaces with pendants like longevity locks. Even today, Yingluo – inspired designs add a touch of classical elegance to modern fashion, proving that tradition can evolve without losing its charm.
