Anklets have been worn for thousands of years, serving as jewellery, markers of social status and, in some cultures, objects associated with spiritual protection.
The accessory, worn around the ankle, has appeared in ancient civilisations and remains part of modern fashion, with designs ranging from simple chains to beaded ornaments and pieces decorated with precious stones.
Historical records from ancient Egypt show that anklets were part of jewellery sets worn alongside bracelets and necklaces. The Metropolitan Museum of Art holds examples dating to Egypt’s Middle Kingdom, between about 1981 and 1640 BC, including anklets made from faience, a glazed ceramic material. Some were recovered from tombs, reflecting the role jewellery played in burial practices.
The history of the anklet is separate from that of the ankh, an ancient Egyptian hieroglyph whose name means “life”. The looped cross became a symbol of life and was sometimes worn as an amulet. Although the two terms may appear similar, the ankh does not mean “a string of hooks”.
Cultural beliefs and the meaning of anklets
The significance of an anklet varies across communities and personal traditions. In some cultures, jewellery has been worn for protection or believed to carry spiritual significance, while in others it serves primarily as decoration or as a marker of social identity.
Some traditions associate anklets with protection against evil spirits or misfortune. Such interpretations reflect cultural and spiritual beliefs rather than scientifically established effects, and they should not be assumed to apply to every community.
Claims that an anklet’s meaning depends on whether it is worn on the left or right foot also vary. One popular interpretation associates the left ankle with marriage or a relationship and the right ankle with being single. However, these meanings are not universal rules, and wearing an anklet on either foot does not reliably indicate a person’s relationship status.
Styles and materials
Modern anklets are available in a wide range of designs, allowing wearers to choose pieces according to their preferences, clothing and occasions.
Simple chain anklets offer a minimal look, while beaded designs add colour and texture. Other styles incorporate gold, silver, gemstones, leather, wood or decorative charms.
Some pieces feature a single stone or pendant, while others use multiple beads or linked elements to create more elaborate designs. Precious and semi-precious stones may also be incorporated into jewellery intended for special occasions.
The choice of material often determines the appearance of the accessory, while the design can reflect personal taste, cultural heritage or the wearer’s preferred style.
Wearing anklets today
Anklets can be worn on their own or alongside other accessories, depending on the look a person wants to achieve. A simple chain may complement everyday clothing, while a more elaborate piece can be paired with outfits for formal or social occasions.
For some wearers, the accessory carries cultural or personal meaning. For others, it is simply a fashion choice.
The history of anklets shows that jewellery can serve several purposes across different societies, from personal adornment to expressions of identity and belief. Their meaning today depends largely on the wearer and the cultural context in which they are used.
