Jewellery Blog
essentials and insider factsThis blog brings you the essentials on jewellery from North Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, ancient jewellery and more. It contains 187 articles. Use the search bar or the drop-down menu above to find what you’re looking for: enjoy!
THOBNA
THOBNA: a must-read book on Palestinian dress and identity by Wafa Ghnaim.
A Palestinian wuqaya
A wuqaya headdress from Ramallah and Jerusalem: who wore this, and how did a German token coin end up with it?
Gold dinars at a glance
Medieval Islamic gold dinars: an overview!
Oman Adorned
Oman Adorned: what is this book about and how do I get it?
Tuareg silver&carnelian ring
A silver Tuareg ring with a pointy carnelian: a hair ring, or a finger ring? Learn to identify them in this article!
Perfume jewels: meskia
What is a meskia from Algeria and Tunisia? See its history and meaning in this blog!
Bedouin jewellery: Intro
What is Bedouin jewellery? For starters, it’s not limited to the Arab Peninsula…you might be surprised to learn where Bedouin jewellery can be found.
Dictionnaire des Bijoux
The Dictionnaire des Bijoux de l’Afrique du Nord by Paul Eudel – with a free pdf of this classic book!
Parfums d’Orient
Parfums d’Orient in the Institut du Monde Arabe, Paris
Jewellery clasps
A great reference book for all sorts of clasps and closing mechanisms in jewellery.
Palestine jewels: Bethlehem
Traditional silver jewellery from Bethlehem: from the iconic shatweh to the haydari bracelets – illustrated with rarely published photographs.
Making their mark
‘Making their Mark: women silversmiths from Oman’. Read more about this exhibition in the British Museum!
Ancient jewellery: Egypt
What is the history of Egyptian jewellery? This historic overview of jewellery along the Nile gives you the basics!
Ancient jewellery: Palestine
What is the history of Palestinian jewellery? These silver hoards, glass beads and gold jewellery finds tell you more!
The evil eye in jewellery
What is evil eye jewellery? Is that bad or good? Find out in this blog!
Iron in folklore and jewellery: amulets and belief
Iron has long been linked with protection in folklore. Discover its role in Middle Eastern amulets, jewellery, and cultural traditions.
What is ‘real’ jewellery?
Is jewellery with plastic or cheap components the real deal, or are you being duped? If you ever wondered: read this.
UNESCO 1970
UNESCO 1970 explained for collectors of jewellery from North Africa and the Middle East: what to be aware of when buying or selling ethnic silver jewellery?
Rings as amulets
Can a ring be an amulet? This blog explores rings as amulets in North Africa & the Middle East.
Jewellery Museum Pforzheim
A visit to the Jewellery Museum in Pforzheim: what to expect?
Photography: 5 tips
How to snap that quick and useful picture of ethnic jewellery?
Intricacy and doves
Learn to read the symbolism and history of a Tunisian silver bracelet in this post.
Glanz und Geheimnis
Bedouin jewellery from Saudi Arabia, Oman, Yemen and the Levant in this beautiful exhibition!
Binding magic in jewellery
Binding magic in jewellery: the use of fibulas and clothing pins explained!
Silberschmuck aus Nubien
Gorgeous black and white photos and many examples of Nubian silver jewellery!
A Life In Jewels
A series of fascinating jewellery essays in honour of Diana Scarisbrick. Loved it.
What is ‘Kuchi jewellery’?
Did you know ‘Kuchi’ is not a tribe? No, really! This blog tells you what ‘Kuchi’ actually is, and explores both old and new Kuchi jewellery.
Keys as amulets
What is the symbolic meaning of keys in the Middle East? Find out in this blog on keys in Middle Eastern jewellery!
Magic of plastic
How does plastic work as amulet in silver jewellery from the Middle East….?
Shine & Mystery
Find out more about this book on Saudi Bedouin jewellery, and silver jewellery from Oman, Yemen and the Levant!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Bedouin Silver Blog
What topics are covered on this jewellery blog?
The blog covers a wide range of topics on Middle Eastern and North African jewellery, including amulets, symbols, ancient jewellery, collectors’ tips, book reviews, cultural traditions, and museum insights.
Who writes the blog articles?
All articles are written by Sigrid van Roode, PhD, a jewellery historian and published author. The blog draws on academic research, museum collections, and fieldwork to provide reliable and engaging insights.
Is the information on this blog reliable?
Yes. This blog is a research-based resource. Articles are referenced and grounded in academic publications, peer-reviewed studies, and documented collections, making it a trusted reference for jewellery history and cultural traditions.
How often are new articles published?
New blog articles are added regularly. With over 175 posts already available, the collection continues to grow as new topics are researched and written.
Is the blog suitable for beginners or only for specialists?
The blog is written in an accessible, conversational style. It is suitable for jewellery enthusiasts, collectors, museum professionals, bellydancers, and anyone curious about cultural heritage.
Can I explore specific themes within the blog?
Yes. The articles are grouped into themes such as Magic & Amulets, Cultures & People, Objects of Adornment, Book Reviews, Tips for Collectors, and Museum Reviews, making it easy to explore specific areas of interest.