Oversized jewelry is often worn by women from Tibet and Nepal. This jewelry, while beautiful, is often rustic, with uneven edges. A closer look
will reveal that this jewelry is made, not by a machine, but by hand.
To appreciate the workmanship of Nepalese jewelry, it is
important to understand the history of the craft. Many of the jewelry craftsmen
in Nepal are actually from Tibet. They fled from Tibet to Nepal when the Chinese took over Tibet in the 1950s. Descendants of these craftsmen continue the
Tibetan jewelry-making tradition in Nepal today. Furthermore, many who make
this traditional jewelry are women, not men.
In both Tibet and Nepal, jewelry is important in dress,
spirituality, and life. Tibetan and Nepalese jewelry also protects the wearer
like an amulet, and most of the metals and stones are believed to have unique
Nepalese jewelry is commonly made from copper or silver, but
it can also be made from gold. Most pieces of Nepal jewelry are quite heavy,
due to the quantities of metal used to make each piece. This jewelry is often
sold by the gram.
Turquoise and coral are the most common stones used in
Nepalese jewelry. Turquoise stands for the sky and the sea. Other stones common
in Nepal jewelry include lapis lazuli, tiger eye, garnet, and agate. Many
bracelets and necklaces are also made from yak bone.
Many piece of Nepalese jewelry are actually representations
of Sanskrit words. These words carry particular meaning for the wearer of the
jewelry. The symbol for Om is often incorporated into jewelry. Om is the sound the universe makes as the planets travel through space. This sound has
relaxing and healing properties. Wearing this symbol reminds the wearer of the
peace that can be found by keeping harmony with Om.
The most common mantra on Tibetan and Nepalese jewelry is
the mantra, om mani padme hum. This mantra literally means, hail to the jewel
in the lotus. The eight auspicious symbols are also popular symbols in Buddhist
jewelry from Nepal. The ten-fold powerful mantra symbol (the Kalachakra mantra
symbol) is also popular. Bracelets carved from three metals are said to have
Dzi beads, or God beads are a very important part of
Buddhist jewelry. Use of these beads can be traced back to 1000 B.C. These
beads come in different shapes and sizes, each one capable of serving a
different spiritual function. Dzi beads have the power of amulet, which means
they carry sacred powers. Some are used to protect the wearer from evil
spirits. Others protect against natural disaster, or increase energy levels.
Some will bring good reputation and some promote decency.
This culture of jewelry making has been around for
centuries, and has a long an rich history among the people of Nepal and Tibet. In both Nepal and Tibet, jewelry stops being something 'fashionable' and is also