A gorget is a piece of armor that historically protected the neck and throat of a soldier. It was typically a metal or leather collar worn around the neck and was an essential part of a knight's armor during the Middle Ages. Over time, the design and use of gorgets evolved.

In the context of military officers, especially in the 18th and 19th centuries, gorgets took on a ceremonial and symbolic role. They were no longer used for protection in battle but were instead worn as part of a military uniform to denote rank and status.

In many European armies, gorgets became an insignia of rank, with different designs and decorations signifying different levels of authority. For example, a general's gorget might be more ornate and decorated than that of a lower-ranking officer.

By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, gorgets had largely fallen out of use as a practical part of a military uniform. They persisted, however, as part of ceremonial dress in some military organizations, particularly in Europe.

It's worth noting that while gorgets were once an important part of military attire, their usage has largely faded, and they are now primarily of historical interest or used in reenactments. Modern military uniforms do not typically include gorgets as part of their design.