By Alika Nzimbi
There is much more than meets the eye when it comes to Maasai beaded necklaces. Known for their breathtakingly elaborate and colorful designs, these necklaces adorn the neck of the beholder and complement the ancient art of the iconic Maasai tribe.
The necklace is a piece of art traditionally made by the Maasai tribe from both Tanzania and Kenya, an East African tribal group that lives around both Mt. Kilimanjaro (Tanzania) and in Kenya's Narok and Kajiado areas. The Maasai are in addition, a nomadic group that engages in pastoralism (where typical domestic animals are released into the vegetated areas. )
The Maasai tribe is well-known for their traditional jumping dance (called Adumu), unique dressing styles, and intricate beadwork, used in their beaded necklaces.
It all started during the 1800s, just when the Europeans arrived in Kenya and Tanzania. Before they came, the Maasai used different materials to create magnificent necklaces - particularly those available in the natural environment including sticks, animal skin, shells, and seeds. The Maasai traded various supplies in exchange for glass beads — which are now used to date to create gorgeous, masterful designs — alongside other materials such as tough manila string, and animal skin.
Maasai necklaces are much more than just a fashion statement, they have a deeper meaning in the Maasai culture. They uphold longstanding traditions in them. Traditionally used in weddings and community events, the women wear jewelry with pride.
Other than events, the necklaces are also worn to show social status, beauty, and age. Unmarried women wear large flat beaded discs around their necks while married women wear long necklaces with blue beads. The distinctive colours in the necklace all have different representations.
Color | What it represents |
|---|---|
Red | Blood, bravery, and unity |
White | Health, peace, and purity |
Blue | Energy |
Green | Land and production |
Black | The people and the struggles they endure |
Yellow | Sun, fertility, and growth |
Orange | Warmth, generosity, and friendship |
(Thomson Safaris "5 Things You Didn’t Know About Maasai Beadwork")
These necklaces have become significant in the Maasai culture and are slowly growing into worldwide renowned pieces of jewelry. They are now sold all over Kenya, but most of all, they are also sold here at Artisan Duka.
Maasai necklaces are one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry and possess a deeper meaning beyond what meets the eye. To see Artisan Duka's exciting collection of beaded Maasai necklaces, click here: https://www.artisanduka.com/maasai-necklaces
Sources:
Thomson Safaris "5 Things You Didn’t Know About Maasai Beadwork"- https://thomsonsafaris.com
Diving Elegance Fashion "All you need to know about Maasai bead necklaces" - https://divineelegancefashion.com
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