The meaning and origin of the skull, a classic motif in men's silver accessories

The meaning of the skull motif in the West and the skull as a fashion item

In Japan, silver accessories have been a staple since they first became popular, so few people may have paid much attention to their origin or meaning.

In the West, the skull represents death.

The skull mark on a pirate ship's flag is the most obvious example.

There is a famous religious phrase, "Memento Mori" (never forget death), and the skull is a motif that reminds us that death is close by.

Although it still has a negative image in religious terms, it has become established as a fashion item since the 1970s, being adopted into American biker fashion and avant-garde art.

When you think of rock or metal, you probably imagine people wearing skull accessories.

Nowadays, there are many characters that have been arranged to look like American comic books, so they can be enjoyed without feeling like they are "death."

The meaning of the skull motif in Japan

In the West, the skull was originally used as an ominous motif signifying death, but in Japan it is surprisingly a lucky motif.

There is a Buddhist reason for this, but since the skull remains after death, it is considered to be an auspicious thing as it represents reincarnation.

Although the skull pattern looks scary, it is actually an auspicious pattern.

Also, in the Sengoku period and other times, after a general's head was taken in a battle, the head was properly memorialized (head memorial service), and the skull was treated with respect (women would even wash the head thoroughly before examining it).

It may not make much sense to you since our view of life and death is completely different from that of today, but even though they were a bit extravagant, skulls were not something to be so loathed.

The meaning of the skull motif in Mexico

On the other hand, skulls are a very popular and positive motif in Mexico.

For example, in Mexico, there is a famous holiday called the Day of the Dead that is celebrated on November 2nd.

The place is filled with skulls and participants wear skull makeup, creating a very lively event.

It's a celebratory festival like a very cheerful Obon festival, where the spirits of both children and adults return and so people have fun.

In Mexico, it is customary to keep the skulls of deceased family members in the home, so even though people feel that death is close by, they do not seem to have a negative impression of skulls.

The classic skull motif of street accessories

This time, we looked at the meaning of the skull, a classic motif in men's silver accessories, and introduced the meaning of the skull in the West, Japan, and Mexico.

• A must-have staple item
• It has an impact, so even one piece doesn't feel lonely.
• The dullness that occurs over time can easily become a part of the flavor.

This is also a recommended item for those who are thinking of buying silver accessories for the first time.

Why not browse through the various items, from comic book-style to realistic designs, and find something that suits your taste?