Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Interesting Facts About Tibetan Silver Jewelry

By Mabel Newman


Located at the highest point of the world, Tibetans have always believed in their ability to be closer to the deities. One method of achieving such is through wearing Tibetan silver jewelry that has a long standing history. Here is why these items are regarded as highly significant.

Compared to the modern art of making jewels that employ the latest technological devices, the ornaments from Tibet are carefully done by hand. Indeed, these are made directly from the imaginations and creativity of the people which connotes a rather intricate method before they can be completed.

In fact, their process of making jewels still involve manual chiseling and hammering that may not guarantee a flawless look like what most items in other parts of world are. But their rustic and rather unfinished look is what makes them more unique than their counterparts, making them more valued and loved.

There are even proofs that the proficiency of Tibetans when it comes to manipulating silver has dated back to 600 AD. At this time, temples in the region were discovered to have been decorated with jewels made out of this metal. Hence, it can be regarded that Tibetans were among the early masters of jewel crafting that have influenced countries around the world.

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 is a Buddhist region, the residents also believe in symbols and words they call mantra. The latter can be represented in 6 words that mean The Jewel Lotus Flower Within The Heart in English and translated to Om Mani Padme Hum. Most of their silverworks reflect symbols of the mantra.

China has prohibited easy entry to the region of Tibet and so most of their crafts are kept to themselves. But Nepal, a neighboring country, has traditions and skills similar enough to Tibetans for them to make the same brand of accessories which are now sold commercially. Many online stores now sell the ornaments at different prices and designs.

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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