MORE EVENTSMuseum Store
Featuring many one-of-a-kind crafts, household and decorative objects. Items found in our store are produced exclusively for the Museum by artisans and craftspeople and imported directly from Africa.
Your purchase at our store supports local African artisans and museum programs.
Thin Triangle Tuareg Earrings
Tuareg silver decorated with black and copper designs. The pendant hangs 2 1/4" on each earring.
Made for the Museum by traditional silversmiths in the famous artisan center of Agadez in the Sahara Desert.
The Tuareg peoples who live predominantly in Mali and Niger moved from North Africa to West Africa over a thousand years ago. These nomadic people have maintained many of their traditions from North Africa, which can be seen in their simple but bold jewelry designs.
Currently, prolific craftspeople see themselves as part of a strong tradition, and their vision is expressed in every piece of work they create. Usually, these silver pieces are characterized by protective symbolism. The "good eye" which opposes the "evil eye" may be depicted in the form of a triangle, cowry shell, or other small symbols. Tuareg crosses are believed to have strong powers--for example the cross of Agadez is thought to be the symbol of life. Silver is a very important material, and traditionally Tuareg people who could afford to do so wore it. This silver has at times been made from melted down European coins or a nickel and silver alloy, and currently many of the pieces we have are made with sterling silver and semi-precious gemstones.
