Written By: Zachary O’Dell

Photos By: Hal Lueking

Models: Preslee Crowl, Lily Elcan, and Ellie Edwards

Choosing to get a piercing can often be a controversial topic, along with tattoos and other body modifications. Despite the judgment you might receive, cultural influences in ear piercings and social influences in body piercings – nose, belly-button, tongue, etc. – are more popular and relevant than it seems. Whether the piercing entails a cultural symbolic meaning or a way of self-expression––no matter what the meaning may be, don’t let judgment persuade you not to get a piercing.

Piercings are described as an insertion of jewelry into various parts of one’s body. In many societies and cultures, the insertion of jewelry into the skin signifies a symbol of royalty and elitism, even fearlessness and courage. Some even believe that this modification establishes a shield of protection of the evil eye.

Ear and body piercings are anything and everything but new. Its history dates back more than 5,000 years ago to ancient times when Egyptian pharaohs pierced their navels in rites of passage, Roman centurions pierced their nipples to show fearlessness and manhood, Mayan cultures pierced their tongues as religious rituals, and Ancient Egyptians pierced their genitals in order to lower procreation.  

The history doesn’t stop there, nor does it stop from continent to continent. In many Latin American, Indian, African, and Middle Eastern cultures, getting a piercing isn’t necessarily a choice. Instead, it is a given in their culture. In numerous cultures, especially in the United States, piercings are a long-standing tradition and an important element in religious ceremonies to inspire powerful visions. Through South Indian and Nepalese religious ceremonies, it is a part of life for all females to be pierced as a sign of prosperity and innocence.

Conventionally, body piercings are perceived as an act of rebellion instead of the act of creativity. Today, the practice of piercing one's body is transcending into a form of affirmation of their individuality, an act of reclaiming your body, and it can be seen as a form of self-care and adornment. Truly allowing an individual to take proud ownership of their body while expressing their individuality in an authentic point-of-view. In fact, numerous body piercings advocates label this practice as an act of imagination, creativity, and self-expression. Continuously pushing the notion that piercings symbolize many authentic meanings, along with honoring one’s body and the individual self they are. We need to constantly remind ourselves and society that every individual has endless freedom over their own body; it’s their choice no matter the circumstance.

Taking its righteous popularity, the evolution of piercings comes with numerous meanings along with various options in order to capture one’s authentic self. Its rising popularity is spearheaded by fashion, beauty, culture, and authenticity. Leading to the notion that a piercing isn’t just a piece of jewelry or a last-minute decision. It signifies a meaning differing from person to person and from one culture to another.