Draft:History of jewelry in Japan

The history of jewelry in Japan is deeply intertwined with its cultural and religious practices, particularly through the significance of wish-fulfilling jewels in Japanese Esoteric Buddhism. These jewels, known as cintāmaṇi in Sanskrit or nyoihōju in Japanese, symbolize the realization of wishes and are a recurring motif in Buddhist iconography and rituals. Their presence in Japanese material culture—from textiles and lacquerware to temple decorations—underscores their importance not just as ornaments but as spiritual symbols embodying Buddhist teachings and the pursuit of enlightenment. The use of jewelry and such symbolic gems reflects a blend of aesthetic appreciation and spiritual aspiration, highlighting the unique place of jewelry in Japan's cultural heritage.