1 of 7

Write now Article Tools

Next to the clothes we choose to wear and the way we fix our hair, little says more about who we are than our choice in jewelry. The way we adorn ourselves is a reflection of our self-esteem, mood, sexuality, and our desire to project our self-image in a particular way at a particular time. Wearing jewelry is always a celebration of our life and our innermost beliefs; calling others to look at us through a prism of beauty. Ethnic tribal jewelry uniquely appeals to our sense of self-identity and connection to the natural world and indeed our the origin of our existence. Wearing ethnic tribal jewelry, be it Native American jewelry or African tribal jewelry sends a strong message that we care and respect the marvelous traditions, culture and the spirit of a great people.

American Indian jewelry is attractive to many for its diversity as well as its beauty. From the Northern Woodlands you can find wondrous bead and quill work. The South West is famous for its Navajo jewelry and Zuni jewelry made from silver and turquoise, and the North West has amazing jewelry made from abalone shell and other natural materials. Sometimes Native American tribal jewelry features precious stones, but it is just as beautiful and exquisite when made from porcupine quills and tightly woven sweet grass.

Genuine, hand made Native American tribal jewelry is highly desirable and collectible. Navajo jewelry and Zuni jewelry, both made from silver and turquoise materials, are quite unique in design. The Navajo crafts person will combine different shades of turquoise into a stunning depiction of a Navajo rain spirit set in an idealized flower blossom. Dream catchers, feathered earrings, hand crafted bolos made from gold and silver, stunning necklaces with matching rings inlaid from ornate silver and black onyx are just a few examples. The finest jewelry is hand crafted by the most experienced and skilled artisan, keeping collectors returning to tribal gift shops year after year. Another popular motif in American Indian and ethnic tribal jewelry are wolves, bears, eagles and Native American Indian fetishes made from natural materials such as bone and shell.

African jewelry is equally popular among collectors. Often inspired by a strong tribal identity, spirituality and pride, African tribal jewelry combines beautifully handcrafted natural materials such as bamboo, amber and beads made from seashells. Original African tribal jewelry made by an African American artist strongly reflects the human connection to the earth, sky and water. Using only materials from ethical product sourcing, tribal jewelry is often regarded as one of the purest forms of African art. Hand painted beads form wondrous colorful necklaces, bracelets and earrings for avid collectors and anyone desiring to display the splendid beauty of Africa. Sparkling stones and gems, such as lemon quartz, rubies and diamonds are common in tribally inspired necklaces and bracelets that are sure to attract attention and inspiration.

When it comes to expressing ourselves through taste and style, ethnic tribal jewelry, including American Indian tribal jewelry and African tribal jewelry are the first choice and the best in class. Choosing ethnic tribal jewelry to adorn yourself sends a strong message that you are aware of your place in the natural world and you respect and honor the place of others. You are a person that commands the attention of others, self-confident and proud to be a member of the world community, as a man or a woman.

Learn more about this author, Francis Jock.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Ethnic tribal jewelry: Add some tribal tradition to your style?
We want to hear your view. Write now!