African-inspired jewelry has long been a favorite among many cultures in addition to African-Americans. In addition to looking great, African jewelry actually has a great deal of cultural, religions, and other symbolic meaning.
One popular component of African jewelry is lucky eye glass beads. These beads include having splashes of color with a small circle in the center. For many centuries, the Lucky Eye has served as a protector from the Evil Eye and as a bringer of good luck. It is symbolically representative of the third eye, which is the mind’s eye that is capable of seeing all, that we all are said to possess.
African jewelry also commonly utilizes Ghana beads. These beads are said to represent good health and good luck. Beads in general are found in most African jewelry, with Mali beads being reserved primarily for special occasions. In addition, large, flat brass beads are often used by the Akan Tribe and are meant to represent the belief that, although the world is wide, God has the power. Sandstone beads, which are commonly depicted through wooden beads on modern African jewelry, is used to bring good luck. The African trade bead, on the other hand, represents prosperity.
Cow bone is also frequently used in creating African jewelry and, since the cow is a symbol of wealth to many African tribes, making jewelry with their bones is considered to represent both prosperity and wealth. Cowry shells are also used in African jewelry for the same purpose, though the shells are said to bring good luck as well.
Agate may also be found on African jewelry, particularly that of West Africa or Ghana roots. This stone is representative of becoming grounded and focusing one’s thoughts. Aventurine stone represents prosperity. Teak wood, on the other hand, represents stability in Kenya.
Cord is also frequently used to string the beads and other items found on African jewelry. This is because the jewelry was originally made from the hair of elephants, though plant fiber is more often used today. Brass, which represents royalty and strength, is also commonly found in West Africa and Ghana jewelry.
