Namibian jewellery

 

The history of Namibian jewellery goes back to the pre-colonial era, when indigenous peoples created jewellery out of natural materials including ostrich eggshells, animal bones, and ivory. New resources, such glass beads, came along with the entrance of European colonisers, inspiring the creation of new jewellery design

Jewellery now mixes traditional components and methods with contemporary styles and materials. Ostrich eggshells, animal bones, semi-precious stones, leather, and silver are a few of the materials most frequently used in Namibian jewellery. The most unique and widely recognised style of jewellery made in Namibia is most likely made of ostrich eggshell. The eggshells are polished and intricately carved before being linked to chains made of leather or metal. These items are frequently embellished with beads and other details, genuinely making them extremely rare.

Another well-liked type of jewellery in Namibia is made from animal bones. Necklaces, bracelets, and earrings are made by polishing and carving the bones into beads and pendants, which are then strung together. These items are frequently embellished with vibrant beads or other organic elements like seeds and shells.

 

In addition to being stunning, Namibian jewellery also has religious and cultural importance. Many of the traditional patterns and motifs used in Namibian jewellery are significant and symbolise several facets of  culture, including the nation's history, animals, and surroundings. Contemporary Namibian jewellers are producing contemporary and avant-garde items that appeal to a global clientele in addition to traditional styles. These designers are utilising conventional materials and methods in fresh and imaginative ways to produce gorgeous and one-of-a-kind items that highlight Namibia's rich cultural heritage.

 

Finally, Namibian jewellery is a distinctive and lovely representation of the nation's cultural heritage. Namibian jewellery reflects the nation's history, traditions, and natural surroundings, whether it is produced from traditional materials or modern ones. Its significance transcends mere ornamentation, making it an important and prized component of Namibian culture.

 

 

 

 

 

References

Burke, A. (2020) Exploring the jewellery of the Himba tribe of Namibia, Lore. Lore. Available at: https://lore.store/blogs/jewellery-blog/exploring-the-jewellery-of-the-himba-tribe-of-namibia

Namibia, G.C. (2021) The tale of the ostrich egg shell, The Narrative. The Narrative. Available at: https://narrativenamibia.com/blogs/news/the-tale-of-the-ostrich-egg-shell

The Bulgarian tradition of Martenitsa - Българска национална телевизия (no date) bnt.bg. Available at: https://bnt.bg/news/the-bulgarian-tradition-of-martenitsa-179851news.htm

 Traditional hairstyles and jewellery in the tribes of Namibia (2021) Ohorongo Private Game Reserve. Available at: https://ohorongo.eco/traditional-hairstyles-and-jewellery-in-the-tribes-of-namibia/