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Tuesday 12 July 2011

Interesting Facts About Tibetan Silver Jewelry

By Mabel Newman


People from the roof of the world, Tibet, have always believed in the powers of stones and ornaments. Tibetan silver jewelry proved to be highly sought after items because of their value and significance in the light of spirituality and tradition. Get to know what sets it apart from the rest of the world's gems.

What makes these items totally worth the amazement is the fact that they are handcrafted by the jewelers themselves. If one would look at the designs of the ornaments, they can be fairly intricate, which means sculpting them could be very difficult. Despite the machine generated accessories of today, Tibetans have managed to pull off their unique approach and skills.

And yes, all the manual use of hammers and chisels are still applied by Tibetans. That's why their genuine products could not be at par with modern Italian silver that looks really flawless in all angles. But the unfinished and rustic look of the items is what makes them more sophisticated looking and more valuable.

Back in 600 AD, temples were found out to have been adorned by ornaments made by people from Tibet, making them one of the earliest silversmiths in the world. They were even thought to have an impact on the whole modern art of jewel crafting during the medieval period although they may have been influenced by other countries as well.

The items Tibetans produce are believed to have powers especially if they are embedded with stones like turquoise and jade, and corals. Tibetans think that these ornaments act like amulets that protect against ill health, invite good luck and fortune, and establish their connection with their religion.

Because Tibet believes in Buddha, they also believe in symbolism and stuffs like mantra which they try to incorporate to their accessories. Mantra can be summarized in the 6 syllables Om Mani Padme Hum which means The Jewel Lotus Flower Within The Heart. The symbol for Om can be found in most items.

Since China has made entrance to Tibet quite difficult, the region has been confined to its own. And the nation of Nepal has taken over the commercial exposure of the Tibetan style of accessories which some online marketplaces are now selling. Nepalese have practiced the same skills used for making ornaments in Tibet.

What is important for people to know is that Tibetan silver jewelry has gone a long way from influencing the lives of ancient to contemporary citizens. The Tibetans' spiritual and often symbolic means of dressing up have molded a great aspect of the world, most particularly jewel craftsmanship.




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