Overview

The use of jewelry in indigenous body adornment spans cross-culturally around the world, taking on many different forms and meanings. For our project, each member has provided an in-depth analysis on jewelry found in one of four different locations: 

Mesoamerica by Edith Gonzales

Mongolia by Devon Hale

Ancient Egypt by Michelle Tobin

India - 1 by Rachel Andre

India - 2 (amulets) by Melanie Stephens

In these, we will present our individual research and interpretations on several recurring themes, such as the use of jewelry in particular ceremonies, jewelry as a means of defining social status, religious connotations, the use of economically valuable or invaluable materials, and the importance of color symbolism. Traditions and beliefs may vary among different cultures, but each one addresses these concepts and has a unique method for creating jewelry as well as utilizing its symbolic power.

Resources

Ancient Egyptian Jewellery by Carol Andrews

Coral and Mongolian Ethnic Jewelry by Elemire Zolla and Cristina Del Mare

Mongol Jewelry by Martha Boyer

Traditional Jewelry of India by Oppi Untracht