My African Jewelry Feature

Africa is the largest continent on the Earth. It is comprised of a multitude of diverse countries and rich cultures that place a high amount respect on the relationship between humans and nature. These cultures have been making handcrafted accessories for thousands of years and some of the key elements of their designs are beginning to creep into western jewelry. A lot of African jewelry tends to have an organic feel using raw materials, metals and gemstones as the main elements. Although this style of jewelry has been popular on the continent for centuries, this natural style is taking hold of American culture. You have probably noticed woods, resins and gemstones such as tiger eye have become very popular in mainstream jewelry. Ancient cultures believed that tiger eye is a mental stone. It is said to allow enhances the insight of its wearer and provides protection from the evil eye.

Native American culture is grounded in an intense connection between the Earth, spirit world and human beings. Their culture finds a connection between nature’s elements and mysticism. A lot Native AmericanTribal jewelry uses turquoise in their designs. Turquoise is a powerful gemstone that is believed to be soothing and enhances peace of mind. It has been said that turquoise changes color to indicate impending danger and some tribes would adorn their armor with the stone as a source of protection. Today, the turquoise is typically set against sterling silver or a matte-finished gold giving the jewelry an earthy appeal. A lot of Native American earrings feature the dreamcatcher, a web-like design that legend says is supposed to catch and hold on to your dreams. Handcrafted jewelry has become popular in mainstream American culture as well, especially in the southwest.

Oversized necklaces, beads and pendants are the new big thing, well thats what I think

Last season saw us lugging gigantic, oversized bags over our shoulders but the new big thing is heavy jewels and layered chains that adorn the throat and decolletage.

At last year’s winter shows in February, models in Madrid, Paris, Milan and New York were laden with layers of heavy beads and chains.

By the summer shows in September, previewing trends for 2010, designers were accessorising their outfits with oversized chokers, beads and pendants.

As long as it’s big, anything goes – layers of gold tribal-like icons, colourful African beads, organic shapes cut from leather, cross sections of polished agate, giant resin beads and colourful floral bouquets crafted from enamelled metal or set with colourful crystals.

But wearing big chunky jewellery is not a flattering look for everyone.

Keeping everything in proportion is key to body shape. If you are small, wearing oversized jewellery can make you appear smaller.

The upside is that this new trend in jewelry is democratic in a time of economic uncertainty. It makes updating one’s look easy and it’s cost effective.

A resin bangle or plastic-disc choker won’t bust the bank and will draw attention away from the fact that you’re wearing the same dress or polo. Another alternative is to make your own.

Create pieces from old beads and customise brooches sourced at flea markets and second-hand stores. Antique stores also often have stashes of low-cost costume jewellery.

Turn these into pendants or create a cluster to form a unique necklace.

Heres a small sample of some of my bits and bobs