Chapter 1
Ancient roots of charm jewelry
Chapter 2
The global art of chunky metalwork
Chapter 3
The modern maximalist comeback
Chapter 4
Bag charms and the art of personalization
YOUR GOAL
Master of The rise of maximalist jewelry
Ch 2 · The global art of chunky metalwork
sonia Tibetan jewelry combines chunky silver, turquoise, and coral to protect the wearer's spiritual energy.
sonia The Akan people of West Africa crafted detailed brass weights that doubled as cultural jewelry.
Fun Fact
Tibetan turquoise: In traditional Tibetan culture, losing a turquoise stone from your jewelry is believed to invite bad luck and shorten your life.
Glossary
metalwork (noun)
Objects made of metal, especially when crafted for artistic or decorative purposes. In the sixth century, Byzantine artisans fabricated heavy, openwork gold cuffs encrusted with pearls and gemstones.
Objects made of metal, especially when crafted for artistic or decorative purposes. In the sixth century, Byzantine artisans fabricated heavy, openwork gold cuffs encrusted with pearls and gemstones.
Quiz
Which decorative metalwork technique involves twisting fine silver or gold threads into intricate, lace-like jewelry designs?
Quiz
The Akan people of which modern-day West African country crafted symbolic brass weights worn as accessories?
Quiz
What is the name of the traditional Tibetan silver amulet box worn to carry prayers and sacred relics?
Quiz
Which gemstone is most highly prized in Tibetan jewelry as a symbol of the sky and spiritual health?
Quiz
What traditional metal-casting method was used to create West African Akan goldweights?
Quiz
Which South Indian dynasty popularized the heavy, ruby-studded 'temple jewelry' worn by classical dancers?
Quiz
Which Italian city is globally famous for its historic gold manufacturing and hosting massive international jewelry exhibitions?