Manifesto

Cultural jewellery serves as a symbol of a person's history and heritage, not only as ornamentation. People have made and worn jewellery all across the world that reflects their respective cultures, worldviews, and customs. It's crucial to preserve and honour these traditions because jewellery making is a sort of art that has been handed down through the generations. Cultural jewellery expresses a group of people's identity. It narrates a tale about their traditions, convictions, and core values. For instance, beads are frequently used to symbolise wealth, social rank, and spirituality in many African societies. In India, ladies dress in elaborate garb made of gold and precious stones for weddings and other occasions to represent prosperity and luck. Similar to how many Native American societies use turquoise as a symbol of protection, Ancient Egyptian jewellery served as a way to express status and religious convictions. Unfortunately, foreigners frequently appropriate ethnic jewellery without having a good grasp of or respect for its value. This may result in the destruction of cultural assets and be viewed as exploitation. In order to avoid cultural appropriation, it is crucial to understand and appreciate the cultural significance of jewellery.

Additionally, making cultural jewellery is a skill that has been handed down through the ages. It calls for expertise, originality, and meticulousness. Cultural jewellery can help us assist traditional artisans and their communities by being preserved and celebrated. We may also admire these special artefacts' beauty and craftsmanship. For those who wear it, cultural jewellery can also be a source of pride and connection. It may support a person's feeling of self and community. For instance, someone who wears jewellery that was handed down from their ancestors may experience a feeling of pride in their cultural identity and a connection to their heritage. In conclusion, cultural jewellery has a purpose beyond mere ornamentation. It is a symbol of people's history and tradition, a type of art that has been passed down through the generations, and it gives the wearer a sense of pride and connection. Avoiding cultural appropriation, respecting the cultural value of jewellery, and preserving and honouring traditional crafts and the people who produce them are all vital.

Cree Tribe

 The history of Cree cultural jewellery is extensive, and it is significant to Cree culture. One of the biggest indigenous populations in Canada is the Cree, and much of the northern parts of the country are part of their traditional area. The Cree have a strong bond with the land and the resources it offers, and this is evident in the jewellery-making materials they choose.

Cree jewellery has traditionally been crafted from materials like bone, antler, wood, and porcupine quills. These components were mined from the earth and skilfully made into stunning, intricate pieces of jewellery that served both practical and adornment purposes. For instance, while working in the fields, Cree women would wear quilled bands around their wrists or ankles to guard against mosquito bites. Additionally, these bands were adorned with elaborate patterns and artwork that expressed the wearer's individual style and cultural background.

Cree jewellery now comes in a broader variety of materials, including silver, gold, and priceless jewels. However, authentic and significant pieces that honour the Cree culture and its history are still made using the traditional materials and methods.

The dreamcatcher is one of the most important items of Cree culture. A common Cree emblem, the dreamcatcher was initially created to shield young children from nightmares and terrible dreams. The dreamcatcher is now a well-known cultural icon that is well-known all over the world. In order to honour the traditional Cree culture and its teachings, it is frequently incorporated into jewellery designs such as necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.

The medicine wheel is yet another significant Cree ornament. The interdependence of all things in the natural world is symbolised by the medicine wheel, which is also a sign of harmony and balance. It is frequently used in jewellery creations to encourage recovery, sturdiness, and spiritual development.

In general, Cree cultural jewellery is a lovely and significant representation of the Cree culture and its principles. It illustrates the close ties that the Cree people have to the land and the natural world, as well as the value of respecting their customs and teachings. Cree jewellery is a representation of pride, tenacity, and perseverance, whether it is a traditional item made of bone and quills or a cutting-edge creation with beautiful jewels.

 

 

 

 

References

Alexander, K. (2022) Cree Tribe of North America , Legends of america. Available at: https://www.legendsofamerica.com/cree-tribe/

Cree (2023) Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, inc. Available at: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Cree

 Cree. StudySmarter UK. Available at: https://www.studysmarter.co.uk/explanations/history/us-history/cree/

Native American Cherokee tribe

  

Cherokee traditional garments have been passed down through the centuries as a kind of art. Native to the South-eastern United States, the Cherokee people have a rich cultural legacy that is reflected in their traditional jewellery.

Silver, copper, bone, and shell are just a few of the widely accessible natural elements used to make Cherokee ornaments. To produce distinctive and lovely items, these materials are frequently mixed with other components like beads, feathers, and leather. The utilisation of elaborate motifs that are indicative of the Cherokee culture is one of the most distinguishing characteristics of Cherokee jewellery. For instance, numerous animals and flora that are significant to the Cherokee way of life, as well as the four cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west), are frequently shown in Cherokee jewellery.

 

The spiritual significance is also another thing that makes it so important to them. Cherokee garments/jewellery is frequently made for ceremonial uses, including weddings, funerals, and other significant occasions. These objects are thought to have spiritual power and frequently have specific meanings. The Cherokee also wears rings, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and other pieces of jewellery. These items frequently include distinctive designs and dexterous beadwork that pay homage to Cherokee culture. Both the Cherokee people and the general public have recently developed a renewed interest in Cherokee traditional customs
. Numerous Cherokee artisans are producing stunning and distinctive jewellery with traditional designs as well as contemporary elements.

 Overall, Cherokee cultural jewellery plays a significant role in the preservation of this heritage. It is a beautiful and meaningful art form that is still practised today thanks to its distinctive designs and use of organic materials.

References

American Indian Originals (2010) Cherokee Indian traditional beadwork jewelry. Available at: http://americanindianoriginals.com/cherokee.html

 Cherokee Jewelers and Artists (no date) Cherokee, NC. Available at: https://visitcherokeenc.com/cherokee-jewelry

 Colombia has stunning and elaborate designs that they incorporate into their jewellery and is used in a way to represent their cultural past. Jewellery has been a significant part of Colombian culture for thousands of years, expressing everything from social position to religious beliefs.

Pre-Columbian gold jewellery uses an ancient art technique, which dates to roughly 500 AD, it is characterised by its elaborate designs that draw their inspiration from nature, animals, and people. These pieces of jewellery were worn by the affluent members of society since the gold employed in them was regarded as a symbol of riches and power. The filigree technique is another well-liked kind of Colombian cultural jewellery. Thin threads of gold or silver are twisted and woven to create beautiful motifs in this delicate and complicated type of art. The popularity of filigree jewels in Colombian culture dates back to the 17th century.

Colombian jewellery makes use of expensive stones like emeralds in addition to gold and silver. The finest emeralds in the world are produced in Colombia, and they are frequently utilised in customary jewellery designs. In Colombian cultural jewellery, other vivid gemstones including topaz, amethyst, and quartz are frequently used. They emphasises the significance of each piece as well as the materials used to create it. Crosses and other religious symbols are prominently featured in many of these sculptures, which are constructed with religious connotation in mind. Additionally, some objects are created to symbolise significant life occasions like weddings or births. The evolution of Colombian cultural jewellery over time is one of its most intriguing features. Although contemporary designers have drawn inspiration from Colombia's cultural heritage to produce modern pieces that combine the old with the new, traditional designs are still popular.

 Finally, Colombian cultural jewellery is a lovely and significant art form that displays the nation's rich cultural past. Everyone can find a piece of jewellery they like in Colombia, whether they prefer traditional or modern designs. Therefore, the next time you visit Colombia, make sure to look around the neighbourhood jewellery stores and bring home some of this exquisite and meaningful craftsmanship.

 

References 

Pre-Columbian Jewelry (no date) Pre-columbian jewelry. Available at: https://www.gia.edu/gia-museum-exhibit-pre-columbian-jewelry

 Publications (2016) David Bernstein Pre-Columbian Art. Extensive inventory of Pre-Columbian art from South America, including ancient objects in ceramic, textiles, bronze, copper and gold. Available at: https://www.precolumbianart4sale.com/publications/187/

Bulgaria

 

Bulgaria’s culture is reflected in the jewellery produced there. The jewellery has considerable cultural and historical worth in addition to being aesthetically pleasing. It is an integral component of Bulgarian culture and has been passed down from generation to generation.

The Martenitsa is one of the most well-known pieces of cultural jewellery from Bulgaria. On March 1st, Bulgarians wear the Martenitsa, a red and white bracelet or ornament. The custom has a long history and represents the arrival of spring a
nd the passing of winter. It is thought to bestow the bearer with good health, joy, and fortune.

The Kukerica is yet another important item of cultural jewellery from Bulgaria. A pendant or necklace called a "Kukerica" depicts the pagan deity of fertility, rebirth, and joy Kuker. Typically made of silver or gold, the Kukerica is frequently embellished with precious stones. Women use the pendant as a representation of fertility and good fortune. Another significant item of cultural jewellery is the "pojas," or traditional belt, of Bulgaria. Usually composed of wool or cotton, the belt is embroidered and beaded in great detail. The location and the event determine the belt's style and colour scheme. Both men and women wear the belt as a mark of their cultural identity and sense of pride in their country.

The traditional necklaces, bracelets, and earrings that are part of Bulgarian culture are also jewellery items. Typically made of silver or gold, the earrings are adorned with jewels, enamel, or filigree. The bracelets and necklaces are also crafted of silver or gold and frequently feature precious stones like sapphires, rubies, and emeralds.

 

In conclusion, cultural jewellery from Bulgaria plays a distinctive and important role in the history and culture of the nation. It is passed down from generation to generation and shows the great range of Bulgarian traditions. Bulgarian cultural jewellery, including the Martenitsa, Kukerica, and customary belts, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, is a representation of the history and sense of identity of the nation.

 

 

 

 

 

References

Bulgaria: General Information (2022) National costume dolls. Available at: https://babogenglish.wordpress.com/2016/03/15/bulgaria-general-information/

Montiglio, D. (2021) 14 things you need to know about the ancient Martenitsa tradition, Foreigner.bg: Best Info for Expats. Available at: https://www.foreigner.bg/13-things-you-need-to-about-the-ancient-martenitsa-tradition/

 

Chinese ancient jewels

 China has a lengthy, developed cultural heritage. The tradition of manufacturing jewellery in the nation is one of the most fascinating aspects of this history. The magnificent patterns and painstaking attention to detail that distinguishes Chinese jewellery are a reflection of the nation's distinct culture and customs.

The employment of lucky symbols is one of the most important aspects of Chinese cultural jewellery. Many of the symbols found in Chinese jewellery are thought to bring happiness, luck, and prosperity. For instance, they frequently depicts the dragon, a strong and beloved beast in Chinese mythology. The dragon is a symbol of power, bravery, and wealth. The phoenix, the double happiness symbol, and the bat are other lucky symbols seen in Chinese jewellery.

The use of precious metals and stones in is a significant component as well. In China, jade has long
been regarded as the most valuable stone, and it is a common material for jewellery. Chinese jewellery also frequently uses other gems including coral, turquoise, and pearls. Another common metal used in Chinese jewellery is silver, which is frequently meticulously wrought to produce beautiful designs. The use of lattice work is one of the most distinctive features of Chinese cultural jewellery. This is the delicate craft of twisting and weaving tiny metal threads into complex designs. Their jewellery frequently employs this technique, particularly in items created during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Lattice work is highly regarded for its beauty and complexity and is frequently used to create intricate designs, such as dragon motifs. 

Chinese cultural jewellery has considerable cultural and historical significance in addition to its aesthetic worth. Numerous pieces are prized by collectors and historians as significant artefacts. The jade funeral suits worn by ancient Chinese emperors, which were thought to safeguard them in the afterlife, are some of the most famous examples of Chinese jewellery.

 
All things considered, Chinese cultural jewellery is an intriguing and significant aspect of the nation's rich cultural legacy. The elaborate filigree work and usage of auspicious motifs in Chinese jewellery reflect the nation's distinctive traditions and past. Chinese cultural jewellery is a must-see for anybody interested in the craft of jewellery manufacturing, regardless of whether you are a collector or just admire the beauty of exquisite jewellery.

 

 

 

 

 

 

References

Cartwright, M. (2023) Jade in ancient China, World History Encyclopedia. https://www.worldhistory.org#organization. Available at: https://www.worldhistory.org/article/1088/jade-in-ancient-china/

Chinese jade (no date) Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, inc. Available at: https://www.britannica.com/art/Chinese-jade

Jade burial suit - legend and reality (2020) Joy of Museums Virtual Tours. Available at: https://joyofmuseums.com/museums/asia-museums/china-museums/beijing-museums/the-national-museum-of-china/jade-burial-suit/

 Milligan, M. (2022) The immortal armour of China's jade burial suits, HeritageDaily. Available at: https://www.heritagedaily.com/2022/03/the-immortal-armour-of-chinas-jade-burial-suits/143047

Saudi Arabia

 

Saudi Arabia is a nation big in heritage and culture, and wearing jewellery is one way for people to express this. Jewellery from Saudi Arabia is renowned for its elaborate patterns, vivid colours, and use of priceless metals and gemstones. It accurately reflects the history and cultural legacy of the nation.

 The Bedouin jewellery is one of the most well-known types of Saudi Arabian jewellery. The Bedouins are a nomadic people who have long resided in the Arabian Peninsula. Their silver and gold jewellery is distinguished by its intricate patterns and designs. Pristine stones like garnet and turquoise are frequently used as embellishments in jewellery. Women frequently wear bedouin jewellery, which is also passed down from generation to generation.

 

 

The Hijazi jewellery is another well-liked type of Saudi Arabian jewellery. The country's west has the Hijaz region, which is renowned for its stunning beaches and extensive history. This region is known for its huge, striking motifs and gold jewellery that frequently features this style. Both men and women wear jewellery, which is frequently embellished with priceless gems like rubies and diamonds.

Saudi Arabian ladies often adorn themselves in a lot of jewellery to show off their social standing. The more jewellery a woman owns, the more socially significant she is. Necklaces, bracelets, and earrings are some of the jewellery items Saudi Arabian ladies most frequently wear. The jewellery is frequently fashioned of gold and set with priceless gems like emeralds, sapphires, and diamonds.

Saudi Arabian jewellery has symbolic significance in addition to being beautiful. For instance, the jewellery worn by the Bedouin frequently depicts patterns that are significant to their culture, such as hospitality, tenacity, and bravery. Important events like weddings and religious festivals are
 other occasions when jewellery is frequently worn.

In conclusion, Saudi Arabian jewellery is an authentic representation of the nation's rich past and present. It is distinguished by its complex patterns, vivid colours, and usage of priceless metals and stones. Each item of jewellery, from Hijazi to Bedouin, tells a tale and embodies a significant element of Saudi Arabian culture. It is understandable why Saudi Arabian jewellery is regarded as a cultural treasure and is highly prized both within the nation and abroad.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

References

 

Discover the Bedouin jewelry of Saudi Arabia (2021) The Sentinel Record. Available at: https://www.hotsr.com/news/2021/may/23/discover-the-bedouin-jewelry-of-saudi-arabia/

Jewellery and Saudi Arabia (2021) The Zay Initiative. Available at: https://thezay.org/saudi-arabia-jewellery/

Saudi Aramco World : The beauty of Bedouin jewelry (no date) AramcoWorld. Available at: https://archive.aramcoworld.com/issue/197902/the.beauty.of.bedouin.jewelry.htm

The Diversity of the Traditional Saudi Jewellery (no date) Al Romaizan Gold & Jewellery. Available at: https://alromaizan.com/blog/the-diversity-of-the-traditional-saudi-jewellery