African jewelry: The markings and geometrical design of Tuareg crosses and Tuareg jewelry in general translates into protective symbolism. "God is the center of the universe, we are one with God" and "no matter where you go God and I shall always be with you and protect you" are common Saharan interpretations. Those of the Muslim faith believe that the arms of the cross will disperse all evil from the individual. Thusly keeping him out of harms way. Tuareg parents are known to give these exquisite silver crosses to their children when they are about to depart from home but they are worn by all as a form of good luck and protection. The Tuareg people are the original Canaanites from the Bible. The meaning of Canaan is 'land of the purple people.' This unusual moniker is in reference to the bluish-purple vegetable dye the Tuareg use to color their clothing that subsequently rubs off onto their skin. The Tuareg are renown for their metal and leather workings. The crosses are uniquely shaped and are named after the town of Agadez from where they originate. The beaded necklace contains four cylindrical decoratively embossed segments called ismana. These crosses are made from an alloy of African silver and nickel. The crosses bear a jewelers mark on its back which is very unusual for crosses made of an alloy. It shows that the piece was hand crafted and the jeweler was proud of his creation! Please click photo for enlargement! See Order button below. When OFFLINE click button to leave a message! Dimensions: 2 inches long x 1 inch wide. |