Another popular, and generally socially accepted form of piercing is that of the nose. Well, socially accepted as long as it is on the side of the nose… the septum piercing – that of the cartilage dividing the two nostrils – is yet to be fully recognized as something unorthodox by the society.

But did you know that origins of side piercing have their roots in old medical practices. Indeed it does. It was believed in India, where this practice came to from Persia, that piercing the side of the nose will provide safer, easier and relatively painless birth.

In Ayur Veda – the old Vedic medical practice, side of the nose is connected with female fertility, ability to bear children and to lessen the pain during birth giving and menstruation.

In Egypt and Middle East it was sign of wealth and social status, but also the means to provide a woman with some financial stability in case of a divorce.

It has been found in many other tribes in Asia and even in old Hebrew culture. But in the west it hadn’t made much of appearance until the Flower Power generation popularized the esthetics of India.

Today, it is becoming more accepted in Western society, although there are many instances, especially in public service where one cannot be employed if featuring nose jewelry…

I personally see no reason for such discrimination, certainly when we speak of a nice stylized piercing.

Although I must admit, it would be a little funny to go to a doctor that greets you with a big bone stuck through his nose