Black and red fingernails were used as a symbol of royalty during the Ming dynasty in the 15th century.
Ancient India
Mehndi, or hand-painted pattern, has a long history in India and has intricate designs. It is often used in weddings and has been used to stain nails in reddish-brown.
The ancient Egyptian
In ancient Egypt, nail color was a status symbol. Red was the color of the highest order of the royal family, while commoners were restricted to light colors. Henna, ochre and blood were used by nail dyers to make the color last longer. Cleopatra herself preferred a deep red.
In ancient Rome
Roman women used rouge to put a healthy pink on their nails and cheeks.
The zhou dynasty
During the zhou dynasty in China, fake nails were born. It is usually made of precious metals such as gold or silver, and is also studded with precious stones, some with intricate cloisonne details.
Peru
In pre-columbian Peru, the incas would paint eagles on their fingernails in some ceremonies.
The Ming dynasty
The royal ladies painted their nails red or black with a paint made of gum Arabic, impatiens, alum, egg whites, gelatin, and beeswax.