Owning a piece of African jewelry is owning a world of culture and history in its own beautiful form. Even though there is history and meaning behind each piece, its the art in the jewelry that grabs the attention of most collectors.
African jewelry is an ancient and time honored art form that reflects the art of African heritage and history. There are several artistic, religious, spiritual and cultural elements of African heritage visible in each uniquely crafted piece of jewelry.
Around the turn of the 10th century, when bronze work was common, crafting these pieces became more complex. Bronze pieces were normally decorated with ivory or precious stones and several of these pieces were identified with royalty. Beads have also played a very important role in African culture and can be seen today in many of the beautiful pieces of jewelry created by the skilled craftsmen who make them.
Modern African pieces still remain true to the same historic values and meanings of the past. If you go a gallery and look at various pieces of jewelry, be it old or new, you will notice several common themes on display: a couple, a woman and child, a male with either a weapon or an animal and an outsider or stranger.
Ivory Coast, Baoule tribe beads. Approx 7 inches with 1 inch chain extention. Glass and brass components. Beads will vary slightly.
Ghana dangle earrings, 24 Carat gold plated with apricot Swarovski crystal accent beads. These exquisite hand made earrings are 2.5 inches in length
The 8 inch bracelet features antique beads from the African trade that originated in Venice, Bali .925 and shiny sterling silver components. Accented with stunning Swarovski crystals and finished with a .925 sterling silver toggle clasp, this bracelet is a piece of art and your chance to wear a piece of history. It is truly one of a kind made from hand picked trade beads from east Africa.
