The art of body piercing has been around for more than 5, 000 years. It began with the first tribes and clans, the oldest human races. It continued through time and passed through different races and social classes of the world.

A pierced ear lobe could have once distinguished a wealthy person from a poor one in Rome.

Nostril piercing is thought to have originated in the Middle East almost 4000 years ago. The kind of jewellery worn could distinguish the wearer by caste and social status.

In the ancient temples of Caribbean indigenous people, Shamans and High Priests pierced their tongues as part of a ritual to communicate with their gods.

African women of the Makololo tribe of Malawi wear plates called 'Pelele' in their upper lip, to arouse the men in their tribes.

Nipple piercing was once considered a sign of strength, virility and endurance.

In ancient Egypt, only the Pharaohs and their royal families were permitted to pierce their navels.

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