Ritual jewelry October 19, 2009

(You can’t see much in this video, but let the drummmsss play as you read on!)

Ritual jewelry has a fascinating history that is as different as the cultures that it represents. Different cultures have different beliefs and uses for ritual jewelry. In ancient days, the elements of the precious metals and gemstones were used in ritual jewelry. Green gemstones, for example, including the emerald, were once used as a relief for eye strain.

American Indians believed that turquoise was a sacred stone, and they used it in many rituals. It was also used like money is today, to exchange for goods. American Indians today still believe that turquoise has healing and balancing energies.

In Africa, the jewelry used in rituals is beautiful and is supposed to reflect the wearer’s importance in the tribe, and their strong connection with their spirits. In medieval times, the jewelry used in rituals was supposed to capture the spirits’ attention.

Making your own… August 16, 2009

Rather than spending money on a bracelet or belt, find your nearest craft store and buy some various sizes of d-rings. Use a thick piece of ribbon and sew your d-rings onto it, to make a clever and crafty belt. Use thinner pieces to make a fashionable bracelet.

You can also find lots of different charms and beads at a craft store. You can use them to make earrings and necklaces. If you have a broken earring, or a half a pair that’s missing its mate, you can bend them apart and use them to make necklaces.

You can find inexpensive earrings, rings and other jewelry in second-hand or consignment stores. Check them carefully to make sure they aren’t made sloppily, and that they don’t have obvious flaws. You can look great for less!