Ethnic and African Jewelry From Its Beginning

Stylish Ethnic and African Jewelry
Terms Clarified

“Ethnic” and “Tribal” are identical terms. They describe something made by a specific ethnic group. “Tribal Jewelry” has developed from Tribal’s and ancient civilizations. “Ethnic style” generally means the jewelry was inspired by a specific culture. Make certain that you and the merchandiser are using the same terminology. You want only true “Tribal” or “African” jewelry.

Historical Development

For thousands of years, jewelry has adorned the bodies of men and women. Originally, jewelry was used to decorate the body of ancient Pre-Columbian and Indus Valley cultures; Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia have that same custom today. Ritual jewelry includes bangles, bracelets, chokers, earrings, and necklaces; these are traditional ornaments worn by both genders.

Types of Materials

Because many of the tribal cultures are poor, they will use simple indigenous materials. Many decorative pieces utilize brass, iron, copper, tin, and various alloys, with minute portions of gold or silver. Skilled artisans use Antique Bottle Glass, Czech Glass Beads, Dice Beads, and decorative Clay Spindle Whorls; these artisans also use stone, semiprecious minerals and organic minerals to produce “African Trade Beads.” Organic materials can include bone, coconut shells, fire coral, exotic hardwoods, also called “Tibetan amber.” Asian, Indian, and Persian cultures engrave or carve elaborate local motifs on these precious stones; they are strung together with hair, hemp, twine, or yarn. African or Ethiopian amber beads come from East African countries. These copal beads are tree resins from the Frankincense incense tree called Boswellia carteri, which grows naturally in this area. Expert artificers create intricate patterns on the surface of the bead by mastering their exemplary technique with hot sticks.

Jewelry for You

There is an abundant variety of Ethnic jewelry, which will match the taste and style of any woman. Tribal Jewelry will enhance any woman’s inherent beauty. These unique pieces of jewelry will compliment her individual elegance and grace. For a couple of years, Ethnic Jewelry has been the first choice in accessory items by fashion designers and runway models around the world. This jewelry is ideal for any occasion; an individual would not be over-dressed, if she wore this jewelry during the day, nor would she be under-dressed, if she wore this jewelry in the evening. Fashion conscious people know African or Tribal Jewelry is both artistic in color and design, and easy to wear at all times. This is a representative sample of some of the various kinds of Ethnic and African Jewelry. Every woman will be in style with single bangles or sets of Resin bangles or Hinge bracelets; these come in various sizes and in a rainbow of colors. Belly belts in assorted styles will flatter any waistline and enhance any wardrobe. Necklaces made from bone and/or metal, many with matching earrings, will accent any style or type of clothing. Interesting hand painted and handcrafted designs on bracelets, necklaces, and belts, feature local motifs on natural materials. Horn bracelets with one of a kind artistic designs, wire meshed necklace sets with dropping glass beads and matching earrings set the standard for distinctive fashionable jewelry. Individual necklaces or necklace sets are meticulous creations of African and Ethnic Jewelry that have intricate designs. Rings in different sizes and shapes are exquisite symbols of life and prosperity. Adorn your neck with lovely three-tone necklaces of brass, copper, and silver. Glass bead necklace sets are made in Amber and brown tones, pink tones, and teal-blue tones, with a natural Agate stone pendant and matching earrings that will embellish anyone’s clothes.