Earrings might still have their place in fashion, but they’re actually one of the most ancient forms of body modifications going, featured in ancient Greek frescoes and been found in the tombs of Egyptian pharaohs.

Today, ear piercings aren’t just reserved for royalty, and most women – not to mention a whole lot of men (and children) – frequently sport studs, rings or bars in their lobes.

Like all forms of fashion, jewellery trends ebb and flow – one decade we’ll be loving everything big, bold and geometric, and the next it’s all about simplicity.