Term Four blog two - Jewellery

    American Indian                 Jewellery

American Indian jewellery embodies a heritage of honor. Each piece of American Indian jewellery conveys symbolism and life within the framework of its exquisite, detailed art.

Native American jewellery normally reflects the cultural diversity and history of its makers, but tribal groups have often borrowed and copied designs and methods from other, neighbouring tribes or nations with which they had trade, and this practice continues today. I like this Jewellery item that is shown her it looks almost modern but at the same time keeping its heritage in the blue stone and patterns.

Term Four blog one - Jewellery

Amulet pendant (1254 BC) made from gold, lapis lazuli, turquoise and carnelian, 14 cm wide.

The first signs of established jewellery making in Ancient Egypt was around

3,000-5,000 years ago. The Egyptians preferred the luxury, rarity, and workability of gold over other metals. In Predynastic Egypt jewellery soon began to symbolise power and religious power in the community. Although it was worn by wealthy Egyptians in life, it was also worn by them in death, with jewellery commonly placed among grave goods.

In conjunction with gold jewellery, Egyptians used coloured glass, along with precious gems. The colour of the jewellery had significance. Green, for example, symbolised fertility. Although lapis lazuli and silver had to be imported from beyond the country’s borders, many other materials for jewellery were found in or near Egypt.

Egyptian designs were most common in Phoenician jewellery. Also, ancient Turkish designs found in Persian jewellery suggest that trade between the Middle East and Europe was not uncommon. Women wore elaborate gold and silver pieces that were used in ceremonies.