The Tuareg Cross of Agadez

by Casonia Smith-King

The Tuareg are a nomadic tribe which live in and about the Sahara Desert region of Africa. They are reknowned Silversmiths who also make quality one of a kind leather goods.

Traditionally, the Tuareg craft in Silver because it is believed to have protective qualities. The Silver used traditionally is not Sterling Silver as we are accustomed to in the Western world, but a Nickel Silver found in the region where the tribe lives.

There are different cross designs representing villages throughout Niger, Africa. It is believed the crosses relate back to ancient times before the Tuareg were influenced by Islam; a time when Christianity heavily influenced the people of the region. Originally, when a male child reached puberty, the crosses were passed down from father to son to show the village he was from. It is said that the father would say to the son: "My son, I give you the four corners of the world, because one cannot know where one will die".

Today, the crosses are used as adornment by men and women.

Do you want to know more about this cross or other Tuareg cross designs?

The book Africa Adorned is an invaluable resource on African tribal jewelry. This is a very large, hardcover book filled with information and lots of exquisite color photographs of African tribes, their jewelry and its purpose.

If you are at all interested in African tribal jewelry, I highly recommend Africa Adorned. This book will add immensely to your enjoyment of the jewelry you may already own and will help you decide which other pieces you may want to acquire.

Its fun to express yourself with ethnic jewelry because there is a story behind these unique handmade pieces.  So adorn yourself or give the gift of; traditional, authentic African tribal jewelry.  You'll want to get to know the tribes and the meaning of the wonderful jewelry they craft by hand using traditional methods because if you wear this jewelry, some is sure to ask you questions about it.

About Author:
Casonia Smith-King is Content Advisor for African-Images.Com, a shopping site and portal dedicated to decorating in African style and Ethnic Eclectic style.