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.
Beads and Jewelry was first published March 20, 2012.
Last 5 posts in Snapshots!
- Beads and Jewelry - March 20th, 2012
- The Shuwaff - March 13th, 2012
- Tea and Tkaout - March 6th, 2012
- Minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque - February 28th, 2012
- To the Souk! - February 21st, 2012
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