Beads and Jewelry

Beads and Jewelry

Jewelry is important in Moroccan culture for not just adornment, but as a means of communicating social class, wealth, marital status, religion, or to what tribe one belongs.  Different types of jewelry are common throughout Morocco. Large beads of coral, amber, and other materials such as those pictured above are worn by the indigenous Amazigh, or Berbers.  The jewelry of the Tuareg people, known as the Blue Men of the Desert, are made of silver and prominently feature stylized cross designs.  Most Moroccan silver and gold jewelry, however, was traditionally made by Jewish craftsmen, who brought their skills in working the precious metals with them to Morocco when fleeing Spain during the Inquisition.  The southern town of Tiznit is especially known for its silver jewelry, and Goulamine for its glass beads.

Snapshot! is our Moroccan photo of the week. Each week we feature a new photograph illustrating the dramatic beauty, cultural diversity or traditional heritage of Morocco and her people.
Beads and Jewelry was first published March 20, 2012.
© 2013, Tramp Imperial Travel. All rights reserved.

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