#Maasai wedding necklace

[africanbazar]

Some Interesting Facts About Maasai Jewelry That You Should Know

Maasai jewelry is a traditional beadwork that holds a cultural and symbolic significance within the Maasai culture. It represents beauty, strength, tradition, warriorhood, marriage, social status, and love toward cows. The beads' colors are used for decorative purposes and represent various aspects of the wearer's identity. 

These days, many people love Maasai beadwork that is used to create accessories like jewelry, belts, and sandals, as well as home décor items and many household tools. This is also one of the most preferred gift items that people give to their loved ones. 

In this blog, let's explore some interesting facts about Maasai Beadwork and what each color in the bead symbolizes. 

Some interesting facts about the Maasai Beadwork

1. Represent Maasai cultural values and traditions

Women specifically craft these beadworks. So, they must learn beadwork. Both men and women wear this jewelry in every cultural practice, like weddings, rituals, and community events.

2. Existed for centuries

Maasai Jewelry are traditional adornments that date back to centuries. In the 19th century, people from all over the world got to know about this jewelry after trading with other tribes. 

3. Beads weren't used to make ornaments

Maasai women initially used dried grass, sticks, clay, seeds, and shells to craft these traditional adornments. With time, women started using attractive beads made of plastic and glass to make jewelry, which they traded with other communities. 

4. Worn as per age and social status

People with higher social status wear more colorful beads. Unmarried women wear large flat beaded discs on their necks while dancing to show their grace and flexibility. Women getting married wear a heavily beaded neck piece on their wedding day. Married women wear long necklaces with blue beads. 

5. Different colors have different meanings

In Maasai beadwork, beads have different colors, each with a special meaning. Both Maasai men and women wear them to express their wealth. Continue reading this blog to know more about what each bead color signifies. 

The Symbolism of Maasai Beadwork 

At the time of the marriage, the mother crafts a special wedding collar representing their village. Several beaded strands hang off the traditional wedding collar and symbolize the dowry in cows. This will be handed over to the bride's family. Women also wear similarly layered collars every day or in ceremonies to represent wealth and beauty.

In Maasai culture, beads are a form of adornment that can be worn every day in ceremonies and rites of passage. These are also given to the visitors to show gratitude and respect. 

Now let's explore more about what each color bead in the jewelry represents of the Maasai culture.

Red: Symbolizes the daily strength, unity, and bravery that Maasai people face. 

Blue: Symbolizes energy and sustenance and represents the color of the sky. 

Green: Symbolizes the color of the grass that provides nourishment and food production for the people and their livestock. 

Orange: Symbolizes warmth, generosity, friendship, and hospitality. It also represents the color of the gourd used to serve milk to guests and welcomes visitors to their houses. 

Yellow: Represents growth and fertility, signifies the color of the sun.  

White: Symbolizes health and purity and represents the color of cow's milk which provides nourishment.

Black: Symbolizes unity, harmony, and solidarity. It represents the color of the people and the daily struggles that they face. 

Conclusion

Maasai jewelry is a beautiful artwork, including colorful beaded ornaments objects like earrings, ear flaps, necklaces, bracelets, belts, and headbands. It is more than jewelry for the Maasai people. It is a beautiful way to express their feelings, wealth, and testament of their skills. Today, these beaded artworks have become very popular all around the world.  Visit African Bazaar and get your own Maasai beadwork at reasonable prices. They also create beautiful and unique handmade items like sandals, jewelry, dress, and so on, which can help you get a traditional look. So, hurry up. Shop now.

[bestjewelleryservicesinnz]

The Role of Jewellry in Cultural Traditions

Jewellry touches every culture for hundreds of years. More than just pretty, jewellry often means more. It shows status, money, faith, and important life events. We'll look at how different cultures use jewellry. We'll see why it's so important to them.

The Story of African Beadwork: 

More Than Art: Beads are not merely for decoration across African societies. They hold significant meaning, expressing identity, standing, and dialogue. Take, for example, the Maasai community from Kenya and Tanzania. They cleverly use vibrant beads to represent various social aspects. What the beads look like and what shades they are can hint at if someone is married, how old they are, and where they stand socially in the tribe.

Indian Bridal Jewellry: Not Just Pretty, But Meaningful: 

Indian bridal jewellry is more than just decoration. It's part of the wedding and stands for good fortune, charm, and safety. Every item is important, from the maang tikka on the bride's forehead to the payal on her feet. The mangal sutra necklace is another crucial piece. The groom ties it during the ceremony. It shows that the bride is married and is thought to keep the marriage safe from harm.

Jade Pieces from China: A Snapshot of Goodness and Righteousness: 

Loved for millennia in China, jade is a symbol of pure beauty, elegance, and solid morals. Jade ornaments like bracelets and charms are popular gifts, representing well-wishes and safety. It's also thought to keep harm far and bring equilibrium and unity to the life of the one wearing it.

Heirloom Jewells in Europe: Linking Past and Present: 

In various European societies, jewells frequently find their way from one generation to the next, preserved as family treasures. These items hold value not just from their skillful crafting and high-quality materials, but also from the family tales and remembrances they enshrine. Wearing these heirloom jewells during notable events pays homage to forebears while affirming the family's ongoing bond and lineage.

Gold in the Middle East: A Sign of Wealth and Standing: 

Gold trinkets in Middle Eastern traditions are a vivid sign of luxury and social standing. They are commonly part of wedding dowries, signifying the family's affluence. The detailed patterns on Middle Eastern gold trinkets mirror the vibrant cultural legacy and artistic customs of the area. Gold trinkets are also viewed as a safe asset and a type of financial safety.

The Art of Kintsugi: Honoring the Broken: 

Kintsugi emerges from Japan. It's a method that mends shattered pottery using a blend of lacquer and precious metal dust such as gold, silver, or platinum. The same technique also applies to jewellry. This process underscores the appeal of flaws and champions repair over disposal. As a symbol, Kintsugi jewellry communicates grit, evolution, and the charm of faultiness. It mirrors the Japanese mindset of wabi-sabi.

Shell Accessories of Pacific Islanders: A Link to Earth and Heritage: 

Shell adornments in plenty of Pacific Island societies signify a profound bond with nature and lineage. These shells are transformed into various items such as necklaces, earpieces, and ornamental headwear, representing the crucial role the sea plays in their existence. Often, these articles act like protective charms, creating a spiritual connection between the wearer, their forefathers, and the environment.

Conclusion:

Jewellry holds a special spot in many cultures, standing for more things than just aesthetics. From the detailed African bead designs, and India's meaningful wedding gems, to the sacred turquoise of Native Americans, each piece carries a tale of culture, lineage, and principles. Recognizing what jewellry means culturally lets us see its actual worth and the deep customs it showcases.

[lavetirdresses]

Unique Marriage Proposal Traditions Around the World

Marriage is a universal institution, yet the way people propose varies dramatically across different cultures. These unique traditions reflect the rich tapestry of customs, values, and beliefs that make each society unique. From elaborate ceremonies to simple gestures, let's explore some of the most fascinating marriage proposal traditions from around the world.

Japan: Yuino and Omiai

In Japan, the process of marriage traditionally begins with "omiai," an arranged meeting between potential spouses and their families. If both parties agree to proceed, a formal engagement ceremony called "yuino" follows. During yuino, families exchange gifts symbolizing their commitment. These gifts include items such as seaweed, which represents joy and fertility, and a long piece of hemp, signifying the couple’s wish for a long-lasting marriage. This exchange solidifies the engagement and marks the beginning of the couple’s journey towards marriage.

Kenya: Beaded Necklace

In Kenya, among the Maasai tribe, a man proposes by giving a beaded necklace to the woman he wishes to marry. The necklace, intricately designed and colorful, is a symbol of the man's intention and his ability to provide for her. If the woman accepts the necklace, she wears it, signifying her acceptance of the proposal. The community often plays a role in these ceremonies, reflecting the Maasai's communal values and their belief in the importance of social harmony in marital unions.

China: Six Etiquette and Three Letters

Chinese marriage proposals are steeped in tradition, involving the "Six Etiquette" and "Three Letters." The Six Etiquette includes the proposal, birthdate matching, betrothal gifts, wedding gifts, selecting the wedding date, and the actual wedding ceremony. The Three Letters refer to the betrothal letter, the gift letter, and the wedding letter. These elements collectively ensure that the marriage is conducted with propriety and respect for both families. This elaborate process highlights the importance of family and tradition in Chinese culture.

Scotland: Asking for a Blessing

In Scotland, a traditional proposal involves the groom-to-be asking for the bride's father's blessing. This gesture of respect demonstrates the man's serious intentions and his recognition of the bride's family’s importance. Following this, a celebratory engagement party often takes place, where both families come together to mark the joyous occasion. Scottish proposals, while respectful and traditional, also incorporate a sense of community and celebration.

Fiji: Whales Tooth

In Fiji, a man proposing marriage presents a tabua, or whale’s tooth, to the father of his prospective bride. This significant cultural gesture symbolizes the man's dedication and readiness to take on the responsibilities of marriage. The acceptance of the tabua by the bride's father is an endorsement of the proposal, marking the couple's engagement. This tradition underscores the importance of familial approval and the symbolic value of natural elements in Fijian culture.

India: The Swayamvar Ceremony

In ancient India, the Swayamvar ceremony was a unique form of proposal. During this event, princesses would choose their husbands from a group of assembled suitors. The suitors often had to prove their worth through various challenges or contests, showcasing their bravery, intelligence, and skills. While this tradition is no longer practiced, it reflects the historical importance of choice and compatibility in Indian matrimonial customs.

United States: The Ring and the Question

In the United States, the proposal is often a more personal and intimate affair. Traditionally, a man proposes with an engagement ring, often selecting a romantic or meaningful location to ask the question, "Will you marry me?" This Western tradition emphasizes the couple’s personal connection and the significance of the engagement ring as a symbol of commitment. Engagement parties and celebrations follow, bringing together family and friends to share in the joy of the upcoming union.learn more:

https://www.lavetir.com/collections/dusty-blue-bridesmaid-dresses

Thailand: Gold and Dowries

In Thailand, a marriage proposal involves the giving of gold and a dowry. The groom-to-be presents these gifts to the bride’s family, demonstrating his financial stability and ability to care for their daughter. This tradition not only reflects the value placed on financial security but also signifies the merging of two families. The exchange of dowries and gold is a significant and respected part of Thai engagement practices.

Bridesmaid Dresses in Various Cultures

An interesting aspect of marriage traditions around the world is the role of bridesmaid dresses. While often associated with Western weddings, bridesmaid dresses also appear in various forms across different cultures. In Japan, bridesmaids might wear traditional kimonos during engagement ceremonies, while in China, they could be seen in qipaos, symbolizing unity and harmony. In the United States, the selection of bridesmaid dresses burnt orange is a crucial part of wedding planning, reflecting the personal tastes and themes chosen by the bride.

A Journey Through Cultural Diversity

Marriage proposal traditions are as diverse as the cultures they originate from. Each tradition, whether it involves a beaded necklace in Kenya or the presentation of a whale’s tooth in Fiji, offers a glimpse into the values and customs that define different societies. These unique practices not only celebrate the union of two individuals but also the rich cultural heritage that shapes their journey together. Whether through elaborate ceremonies or simple gestures, the universal theme of love and commitment remains at the heart of every marriage proposal.

[lovingdreammick]

The Enduring Allure of Adornments: Exploring the Multifaceted Reasons Why Humans Wear Jewelry

The act of adorning oneself with jewelry is a practice that transcends cultural boundaries and spans the annals of human history. From ancient civilizations to modern societies, humans have consistently adorned their bodies with various forms of jewelry. The motivations behind wearing jewelry are diverse and multifaceted, reflecting individual, cultural, and societal values. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the intricacies of why humans wear jewelry, uncovering the psychological, social, cultural, and personal dimensions that contribute to the enduring allure of adornments.

A Historical Tapestry of Adornments:

To comprehend the contemporary significance of wearing jewelry, it is essential to trace its roots through the rich tapestry of human history. Ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Indus Valley, as well as cultures like the Greeks and Romans, all left behind intricate artifacts that exemplify the importance of jewelry in their societies. Whether in the form of elaborate headdresses, ornate necklaces, or symbolic rings, these artifacts provide a window into the various roles that jewelry played – from religious and ritualistic purposes to social status indicators.

Symbolism and Personal Expression:

One of the fundamental reasons humans wear jewelry is the symbolic significance attached to each piece. Jewelry often serves as a form of personal expression, allowing individuals to communicate aspects of their identity, beliefs, and affiliations. Wedding rings, for instance, symbolize eternal love and commitment, while religious jewelry can signify devotion to a particular faith. Moreover, personal milestones and achievements are frequently commemorated with jewelry, turning these adornments into tangible markers of life’s journey.

Social Signifiers and Status Symbols:

Throughout history, jewelry has functioned as a potent social signifier, reflecting an individual’s status, wealth, and societal standing. In many cultures, the type and quantity of jewelry one wore were indicative of their rank within the social hierarchy. Crown jewels, for instance, were reserved for royalty, while intricate gold jewelry might denote affluence. Even in the modern era, certain types of jewelry are associated with luxury and exclusivity, serving as status symbols within society.

Cultural Heritage and Tradition:

Jewelry often plays a pivotal role in preserving and transmitting cultural heritage and traditions. Different regions of the world boast unique styles, materials, and techniques that are passed down through generations. Cultural jewelry, whether it be Maasai beadwork, Native American silverwork, or Chinese jade carvings, embodies a profound connection to history and tradition. Wearing such jewelry becomes a way for individuals to celebrate and honor their cultural roots, fostering a sense of identity and continuity.

V. Psychological and Emotional Significance:

The act of adorning oneself with jewelry is deeply intertwined with human psychology and emotions. Certain pieces of jewelry hold sentimental value, serving as reminders of loved ones, cherished memories, or significant life events. Lockets with photographs, charm bracelets with symbolic trinkets, and engraved pieces all carry emotional weight, providing individuals with a tangible connection to their past and present.

Self-Expression and Fashion:

In contemporary society, the act of wearing jewelry has become a powerful form of self-expression and fashion. Individuals use jewelry to convey their personal style, experiment with trends, and make bold statements. Whether it’s layering delicate necklaces for a bohemian look or donning statement earrings for a touch of glamour, jewelry has become an integral part of the fashion landscape. Designers and artisans continually push the boundaries of creativity, producing pieces that not only enhance physical appearance but also serve as wearable art.

VII. Healing and Spiritual Properties:

For millennia, various cultures have believed in the healing and spiritual properties of certain gemstones and metals. This belief is encapsulated in the practice of wearing birthstones or crystals thought to possess specific energies. From the ancient practice of using amber for its purported healing properties to the contemporary fascination with crystals, the idea that jewelry can positively influence one’s well-being has persisted across cultures and centuries.

Technological Advancements in Jewelry Making:

The evolution of jewelry-making techniques and materials has expanded the possibilities for creating intricate and innovative pieces. Advancements such as 3D printing, laser cutting, and new materials have not only revolutionized the industry but have also allowed for greater personalization. Custom-designed jewelry, once a luxury reserved for the elite, has become more accessible, enabling individuals to create pieces that are uniquely tailored to their tastes and preferences.

As we navigate the 21st century, the motivations behind wearing jewelry continue to evolve. The intersection of technology, sustainability, and individualism shapes the trajectory of the jewelry industry. Virtual and augmented reality are being explored to enhance the shopping experience, and innovative materials are continually being developed to address environmental concerns. The future of jewelry promises to be as diverse and dynamic as the motivations that have propelled its evolution throughout history.

The act of adorning oneself with jewelry is a rich and complex phenomenon that encompasses a myriad of psychological, social, cultural, and personal dimensions. From the dawn of civilization to the present day, humans have consistently found meaning, identity, and beauty in the wearing of jewelry. As we continue to navigate the intricate interplay between tradition and innovation, symbolism and personal expression, it is clear that the allure of adornments will persist, weaving its way through the fabric of human existence for generations to come.

[mosherii]

Excited to share the latest addition to my #etsy shop: Yellow, black and gold handmade beaded masaai maasai Masai necklaces with free shipping world wide #yellow #wedding #thanksgiving #round #silver #yes #women #artdeco #madeinkenya https://etsy.me/3ZG3x9t https://www.instagram.com/p/CpoiLCDq-q7/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[biscuitsarenice]

Handmade In Africa

Jane Semanto, a master bead maker, crafts a traditional Maasai wedding necklace

Like many Maasai, Jane lives a modern life in Nairobi but retains a deep knowledge and reverence for her tribal heritage. The Maasai use beads to signify social and marital status. Colours also hold special importance, signifying elements of the Rift Valley landscape, as well as valued Maasai character traits such as bravery and friendship. 

[slippinmickeys]

Five Fun Facts Challenge

Tell 5 facts about yourself and tag 5 friends to reblog and share 5 fun facts about themselves! Thanks for the tag, @gaycrouton!

1. I was named after my sister’s imaginary friend. They thought I was a boy right up until I was born. When I came out a girl, they did not have a name, so my aunt suggested naming me after my sister’s imaginary friend, who was a fireman on CHiPs. 

2. After I graduated from film school I worked for Roger Corman, as the director of international sales for his production company. I was at the Cannes Film Festival working when the X-Files Finale (The Truth) aired. I had to go the American Pavilion to get online to see what had happened. 

3. For years I worked as a writer and moderator for Television Without Pity. 

4. In the weeks leading up to my wedding I was building schools on the Maasai Mara in Kenya and wore a Maasai wedding necklace from the mamas to my rehearsal dinner.

5. I once took a wilderness survival class in college which was a Military Science class--as such, I ended up in ROTC for a semester. I learned a ton of useful stuff, got to ride in a Blackhawk, and still remember how to both hogtie a POW and dis/re-assemble an M16. 

Tagging @rosethornhill @reasonandfaithinharmony @edierone @wholeperson @admiralty-xfd who I know has already done it. 

[tanzania-safari-tours]

What To Know If You Are Going On A Tanzania Safari Tours

If you decide to travel to Tanzania safari tours, it is good to know how to prepare. Here is some useful information to prepare your trip.

During Tanzania safari tours, we suggest you visit a traditional tribe. The best known tribe in Tanzania is probably the Maasai tribe. They are a people of nomadic shepherds who live with and their cattle. The Masai are known for their beaded jewelry, long spears and red shukkas (traditional clothing like blankets). The Masai live in semi-permanent huts called the manyatta, made of grass and manure. Their traditional dance is great to watch: it involves jumping as high as possible!

Around Lake Eyasi lives the oldest tribe in Tanzania, the Hadzabe. Until recently, they lived in isolation, but today they like to receive visiting tourists. The Hadzabe still have a traditional way of life, which means that they live mainly from hunting. And just like the more southerly San and Xhosa, we hear a click in their language when they speak.

The climate of Tanzania safari tours has two seasons which are not very different from each other. The climate is pleasant and can vary due to differences in altitude. Normally the climate in the highlands is cool with a considerable difference between day and night temperatures, while on the coast it is hot and humid. During the day, temperatures can rise to over 35 ° C.

Tanzania has two rainy periods. The short rainy season runs from mid-October to the end of November and the long rainy season from the end of March to the end of May. Even though these seasons are said to be rainy, you can still go on a safari in Tanzania during this period. Most of the roads are passable, the parks are green, it is cooler and there are fewer tourists: advantages not to be overlooked! Rain usually falls in the late afternoon, while during the day it is clear and sunny. Unpaved roads in parks may become impassable in heavy rain. In this case, we are always looking for an alternative route!

Tanzania is a safe vacation destination. The country is even often recognized as the safest country in Africa. Politically, the country is stable. Yet there is still relatively much poverty in the country. It is therefore wise to stick to a number of rules and some common sense. If you follow the rules below - which also apply in all major European cities - nothing can happen to you:

Never leave your passport, money and valuables unattended and visible to everyone in your room. Put your things in a locker or put them in the reception where they are kept in special lockers.

Do not leave valuables (such as money or your coat) in the safari car, even for a short time.

Leave your beautiful jewelry at home. You can wear a (simple) necklace, watch or wedding ring, but avoid wearing ostentatious jewelry.

Do not take to the streets after dark. Watch out for pickpockets during the day too.

If you need to take a taxi, be sure to use only registered taxi companies.

Health services in Tanzania safari tours

The quality of health care in Tanzania varies widely. In large cities, medical facilities are reasonable or even good, but waiting times are often long and prevention is better than cure.

Vaccinations

It is advisable to get vaccinated before going on a trip to Tanzania. As we are not doctors and the advice may change during the year, we recommend that you consult your doctor at least four weeks before departure for the latest information on the vaccinations required for Tanzania. You can find information on the France Diplomatie travel advice site. You can also consult the list of addresses for the nearest vaccination agencies at this address: international vaccination centers . Likewise, the Pasteur Institute website is full of information about diseases and vaccines for Tanzania.

Vaccination book and first aid kit

Make sure all of your vaccines are recorded in your personal immunization record. If you do not already have one, you will receive it from the competent authority. Remember to bring this vaccination record with you when you travel. Upon arrival, the customs authorities can request it. It also provides important information when visiting the doctor.

Finally, it is advisable to bring your own first aid kit to Tanzania. Consider the following tools: band-aids, gauze (sterile), ampoule dressings, iodine and medication for headaches and bowel disorders. It is also advisable to bring towels and tampons as it can be difficult to find in some areas.

Clothes in Tanzania

In Tanzania, you can wear your usual clothes. It is customary to cover the shoulders and wear skirts that reach below the knee. In Zanzibar, most women also veil their heads. These rules are not very strict. In any case, you can dress as you wish when you are in your accommodation: shorts or skirts are well accepted.

Tanzania safari tours are located just south of the equator, so the sun can be very strong. Watch out for sunburn! If you stay in the sun too long without covering yourself or drinking, you may feel unwell and get signs of dehydration, nausea, dizziness, or headache. It is therefore really advisable to wear a hat or cap and sunglasses during the day. Sunscreen is also not a superfluous luxury ... Think about that when you pack!

After sunset, we advise you to wear long pants and possibly long sleeves because of mosquitoes. Bring a small sweater or coat as it can get chilly in the early morning and evening, especially in mountainous regions. Also bring comfortable shoes (for example sports shoes) to feel comfortable, as well as your swimsuit for Zanzibar and for lodges with swimming pool.

During the safari, it is customary to wear flexible clothing, preferably cotton and in the colors of the safari. We do not recommend wearing dark colors (black, blue or red) during the safari - this will attract flies and insects. It is best to wear neutral and natural colors, such as khaki or olive green.

Eat and drink

In lodges, tent camps and resorts in Tanzania safari tours, the food and drink offer is very often like in Europe, with a certain number of Tanzanian dishes in addition to being able to taste the local specialties. In the morning, a full English breakfast is served with eggs, bacon, tomatoes, muesli and delicious tropical fruit. The lunches are often composed of hot dishes and for dinner, it will be a starter dessert menu which offers you three or more dishes. In small lodges and camps, meals are often established in advance, but some also offer a menu of your choice. The larger lodges usually offer lunch and dinner buffet style. Local beer (the most famous are Kilimanjaro, Serengeti and Safari) are good and often,

Tap water is not fit for consumption. In your room there is therefore a bottle or a pitcher of water with purified drinking water. You can also buy bottles of drinking water in each lodge. Make sure you drink enough water. The heat in Tanzania can cause you to unconsciously lose a lot of water and yet you need to stay well hydrated. During the safari, lunch will be served as a picnic, which you can eat during a stop at the special picnic areas en route.

Tips are not required in Tanzania. However, wages are not high in Tanzania, so staff will always appreciate a tip. Our advice is to only tip if you are really satisfied with the service. Often, these are small sums of money, for example you can tip a dollar per person for people at the hotel who bring your suitcase to the room. It is often also possible to give a little money for all the staff in a box reserved for this purpose at the reception.

It is customary to tip your driver at the end of the safari. We are talking about 20 dollars a day. A tip must of course always come from the heart and should not be an obligation. We offer 20 dollars per day because our guide is at your disposal for the entire duration of the safari. Our guides receive a good salary, but often use tips like an apple to put a little butter in the spinach and be able to afford some extras.

[cloudsoverthesea]

The vogue of Choker

A choker is a necklace that is above the collarbone and close to the neck. It is an ornament shorter than ordinary necklaces.

The origins of the Choker are transcontinental. In native American tradition of dress includes a variety of forms of jewelry, one of which is the Choker, with animal bones, glass beads and shells polished string, create fine necklace lay in a stack, tightly covered the neck more than half of the site, and then a long necklace hangs down, formed in the bosom of concentric semicircle, sometimes, They also used large seashells or silver pieces for decorations on the front. The Native American Choker was used to protect the neck arteries and throat during tribal warfare and as a ceremonial decoration.

In East Africa, the Choker plays an important role in Masai celebration culture, not only as a decoration, but also as an indicator of special occasions and interpersonal identity. At Maasai weddings, for example, the bride wears a beautiful handmade dress and a colorful Choker whose material, color and size correspond to the wealth of the bride's tribe. The Choker has also become a symbol of a woman's marital status. A married woman will wear the Choker she wore at her wedding for life.

From 1793 to 1794, France was ruled by a Jacobin dictatorship led by Robespierre. All counter-revolutionary suspects were severely cracked down on and thousands of them were guillotined. At this time, a kind of party called Victim's Ball became popular. Hair was cut short, as on death row, and women wrapped a bright red velvet satin around their necks, mimicating decapitation, and tied the red satin at their backs in an X shape, in honor of the victims

In the 19th century, princess of wales Alexandra in order to cover the neck of a scar, so wearing all the year round made of pearl and velvet collar, so this kind of chic dress up quickly became popular in the royal family, become a culture, society, after that, wide in the shape of a Choker became popular, and became as a sign of the upper society, And often inlaid with pearls, gems and gold, it became a tool for ladies to compete for glamour.

During the Great Depression, the Choker joined the rebel culture movement and became a code word for lesbians. The Choker made a comeback in the mid-20th century, grabbing headlines for different styles and becoming a goth travel staple in the 1990s.

If you are interested in Choker, go to Jewelrykg for cheap wholesale jewelry!

[vintagejewelrydelight]

^==^ Vintage Original African Wedding Maasai/Masai Necklace - Orange/blue/Shells https://ift.tt/2VTdn8O

[dirtanddecadence]

This trip has been one incredible experience and place after another. Locationally, nature in both flora and fauna, and the people, with their attitudes, experiences, perspectives, and also their crafts. It feels trite/cliche to even try and put these experiences into words, but the last month also can't be left unshared, even if I have no way to represent it properly. ///: The son of the chief of this particular Maasai Village we visited on our way to the Ngorongoro Crater, tending to the kitchen fire in one of the village homes, behind him are two traditional woman's wedding necklaces, the white beads are used because they represent happiness. ://:: The collection of jewelry pieces I've acquired from the Samburu and Maasai on this trip. Will treasure hanging the traditional pieces in my studio, ((especially the necklace on the right which is an incredible necklace made by the Samburu, estimated by the elders to be around 50-75 years old based on when they were still employing those techniques, using palm roots and cow hide)), as a reminder of the energy and life this trip revitalized in me by getting to have this experience. Again, trite and cliche I know, but honest. Cheers to feeling ✨ (at Tanzania)

[mosherii]

Excited to share the latest addition to my #etsy shop: Blue and gold handmade beaded masaai maasai Masai necklaces with free shipping world wide #blue #wedding #round #rosegold #yes #women #giftforshe #africanbeads #handmadenecklaces https://etsy.me/3JsRnuN https://www.instagram.com/p/Cpoh_VpKXnv/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[necklacenext]

Just Pinned to Necklaces: White wedding necklace / African tribal necklace / Wedding jewelry / Maasai necklaces made in Kenya / Wedding collar necklace http://bit.ly/2EookXl

[futuremaasai-blog]

Maasai details & accessories 

- The Maasai are known for their intricate jewelry and have sold these items for decades as a company to tourists.

- The piercing and stretching of earlobes is common among the Maasai. Various materials have been used to both pierce and stretch the lobes, including thorns for piercing, twigs, bundles of twigs, stones, the cross section of elephant tusks and empty film canisters.

- Many Maasai in Tanzania wear simple sandals, which were until recently made from cowhides. They are now soled with tire strips or plastic.

- Both men and women wear wooden bracelets. The Maasai women regularly weave and bead jewellery. This bead work plays an essential part in the ornamentation of their body.

- Beads weren’t the original material used. Initially, Maasai women used dried grass, sticks, clay, seeds, and shells as materials to make the traditional ornaments. Over time, they began using attractive beads made of plastic and glass that they obtained from other communities through trade.

- A Maasai clothing style and its colors vary depending on age and social position; young men, for example, wear black during the months leading to their circumcision rite of passage, while old women prefer red, that is obtained by dying the fabric with natural pigments such as ochre.

- Often the Maasai will wear or give bead jewelry for special occasions. Below is a list of some examples of this use -

• Unmarried Maasai girls often wear a large flat beaded disc that surrounds their neck when dancing. They use the movement of the disc to display their grace and flexibility.

• Women will wear a very elaborate and heavy beaded necklace on their wedding day. The necklace often hangs down to the brides knees and can make it very difficult for her to walk.

• A married Maasai woman will wear a Nborro, which is a long necklace with blue beads.

1, 2