Tribal Jewelry in India

Untouched by the modern trends of the world, India homes over 85 million tribal people, the largest population of indigenous people in a country in the world. These indigenous people have endowed the country with a deep rooted cultural heritage, derived from nature, and preserved for centuries.

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Customs and traditions prevalent in these tribes are most visible in their physical demeanor. Their attire depends on what is locally available and the arts and crafts. Most local customs dictate the tribes’ folk to wear ornaments like Khinwa (ear tops), Phuli (large nose ring), Muhar Mala (coin necklace) and Chude (bangles) made of gold, silver, aluminum, brass, clay, lead and wood.

 

             

 

 

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The growing dependency on modern technology has led these tribes to lag behind socially and economically. More than 50% of these people have no access to economic assets like communication and transport and thus, live below the poverty line. In these circumstances they strive to maintain their livelihood, taking only what is required. In times of such economic strife, the government along with many organizations has tried to encourage revenue generating activities amongst different tribes. They are based on the locally available resources so as to create gainful employment for the tribesmen, without disrupting the delicate balance that they live in. Ever since then, the commercial sale of tribal crafts, especially jewelry, has been given a lot of support. Made using various mediums like bone, shell, clay, wood and crude metal; tribal jewelry holds a distinct rustic and earthy charm for the urban market; its crude finish an aspect of beauty itself.

 

Pic credit: The Color Caravan

Pic credit: The Color Caravan

Pic credit: The Color Caravan

 

 

Tribes like the Santhals from Central India, Bhils from Rajasthan, Bhutia, Khasi, Jaintia , Wancho & Konyak of northeast India among many others are now producing such jewelry for commercial purposes. Their interests are protected by the Government lest they may fall prey to exploitation. 

 

With a sudden surge in the market demand for indigenous craft, tribal designs and their jewelry, this trade has experienced growth.

Check out some gorgeous pieces of tribal jewelry currently available on The Color Caravan eStore.

 

 

Reference: Tribes India,