African jewelry: Christianity was established in the Ethiopian highlands as early as the 4th century. For over 1600 years Christian Ethiopians have worn neck crosses as a symbol of faith. The cross was suspended around the neck by a cotton blue cord called a “mateb” which was received at baptism. Jewelry wise, the cross is the most prized personal possession and most valued to collectors of all highland selections.The crosses are usually named from the region that they originate. The crosses feature various design styling from the simplistic Greek or Latin crucifix to the more elaborate with flared arms, trefoils, decorative projections, complicated openwork designing and patterns of interwoven lines symbolizing eternity. Hinges and crowns show the later influence of 19th century European medals. Our offerings are hand cast and made from a silver/nickel alloy. See each cross individualy below! A leather cord is included with each cross! The Ethiopian cross is also made in a larger hand held model that is carried in religious processions. Please visit our "Tribal Works" section to view the larger processional crosses. Please click photo for enlargement! See Order buttons below. When OFFLINE click button to leave a message!
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| Please click for more information on Ethiopia. |
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| This cross is from the north eastern Wollo historical region and features a moveable top hinged section. Dimensions: 3 inches long x 2 1/4 inches wide Please click photo for enlargement! |
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| This cross is from the northern Lalibela province. Lalibela is one of the holiest cities in Ethiopia and is the center of pilgrimage for much of the country. Dimensions: 2 1/4 inches long x 1 1/2 inches wide Please click photo for enlargement! |
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| This larger cross is from the city of Gonder which was founded in the year 1635. It features a moveable top hinged section and a Christion styled cross motif at the center. Dimensions: 3 1/4 inches long x 1 3/4 inches wide Please click photo for enlargement! |
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| This cross is from the Gonder province and features a motif known as the Star of David. The cross is worn by Ethiopian Jews known locally as Felasha. Dimensions: 1 3/4 inches long x 3/4 of an inch wide Please click photo for enlargement! |
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| This larger cross is from the city of Gonder which was founded in the year 1635. The cross features a moveable top hinged section. Dimensions: 3 inches long x 2 inches wide Please click photo for enlargement! Sold |
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| This cross is from the northern Axum province named after the "Kingdom of Aksum" which was reffered to in medieval times as "Ethiopia". The cross features a Christian styled cross motif at its center. Dimensions: 2 1/4 inches long x 1 1/4 inches wide Please click photo for enlargement! Sold |
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| This cross features classic north eastern Wollo historical region design. Dimensions: 1 1/2 inches tall x 1 inch wide Please click photo for enlargement! |
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| This cross features classic Gojam province styling. The north western city of Gojam was mentioned in a manuscript dated back in 1309. Dimensions: 2 1/4 inches tall x 1 1/2 inch wide Please click photo for enlargement! |
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| This cross large is known as a "Hake" cross meaning cross from the lake (lake Tana.) It features a moveable top hinged section. Dimensions: 3 1/2 inches tall x 2 inches wide Please click photo for enlargement! |
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| This cross features classic Gojam province Christian cross design. The north western city of Gojam was mentioned in a manuscript dated back in 1309. Sold Dimensions: 2 inches tall x 1 1/4 inch wide Please click photo for enlargement! |
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| This cross is from the Gonder province and features a motif known as the Star of David. The cross is worn by Ethiopian Jews known locally as Felasha. Dimensions: 2 inches long x 1 1/2 inches wide. Please click photo for enlargement! |
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| This cross is from the northern Lalibela province. Lalibela is one of the holiest cities in Ethiopia and is the center of pilgrimage for much of the country. Dimensions: 2 inches long x 1 inch wide Please click photo for enlargement! |
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