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One of Morocco’s best kept secrets is their Moroccan Berber jewelry. This jewelry is traditionally seen as an ancient tradition in Morocco and a sign of beauty among the women there.
If you’re visiting Morocco, purchasing your very own Berber jewelry is essential!
Moroccan Berber jewelry is crafted with tradition, skill, and the culture of Morocco in mind.
Each piece of jewelry holds a special meaning, as the most traditional Berber jewelry has been passed down from generation to generation and holds memories of the past along with the family’s legacy.
These treasures of Moroccan craftsmanship are seen as signs of beauty and glory for Berber women and they’re the perfect jewelry pieces for women who love to stand out, as they add a lot of personality.
Each region of Morocco has its own design of the classic charmed jewelry, making them unique in their own way.
History of Berber Jewelry
The term “Berber” is one that means “Free People” and is used to define the indigenous people of North Africa.
These groups have lived in North Africa since 2000 BC and have been handcrafting their jewelry since their early days.
Berber jewelry is a traditional way for women to connect with one another, and it is a symbol of female empowerment.
Women were traditionally gifted this jewelry as a dowry from marriage.
As the jewelry is so expensive, it serves as a way for her to take care of her family in case of emergency which protects her independence.
Types of Moroccan Berber Jewelry
There are many different types of the traditional Berber jewelry.
Though extravagant necklaces adorned with large beads may be some of the more common and the first that come to mind when thinking back to tradition, there is so much more!
If you’re looking for Berber jewelry to wear, you’ll be pleased to know that there are necklaces, belts, bracelets, pendants, and even rings for you to choose from.
Each piece is unique and still holds the same meaning, just in a different way.
Small Berber jewelry is traditionally worn day to day in more casual settings.
These are the more dainty pieces that blend with the rest of your jewelry and don’t stand out too much.
Large Berber jewelry is traditionally worn in special ceremonies. These pieces are bulkier and more extravagant, making them impractical for everyday wear but gorgeous for special occasions.
Large Berber pieces are typically seen in settings like engagement ceremonies, weddings, and other special events.
With so many variations of the traditional jewelry, it’s no surprise that it can get extremely expensive depending on the materials used and the weight of the jewelry.
Some of the more expensive pieces of Berber jewelry are thousands of dollars.
Materials Used for Berber Jewelry
Moroccan Berber jewelry can be as extravagant or as simple as you’d like. Everyday pieces tend to be daintier, while traditional pieces bring dramatic flair and tradition into play.
With both styles, there are many different materials used during the crafting of these traditional jewelry pieces.
Metal – There are metals used throughout Berber jewelry, traditionally either solid silver or bronze. The most traditional pieces are made of silver, as the light color was seen as more pure.
These metals are crafted and finished with beautiful engravings, then encrusted with traditional stones.
All Berber jewelry is hand shaped and because of this, it brings the real traditions of Morocco to life.
When you purchase a piece of Moroccan Berber jewelry, you’re purchasing a piece of deep rooted history.
Stones – More traditional Berber jewelry sets are highlighted by beautiful stones, such as real Amber or coral. Others are engraved to highlight tradition with floral motifs, Berber symbols, and geometric designs.
Every piece of Moroccan Berber jewelry can be seen as a unique work of art, especially if it has been crafted by and purchased from an individual as opposed to someone that mass produces them for money.
Where to Buy Traditional Moroccan Berber Jewelry
If you’re interested in purchasing this beautiful and extravagant jewelry, there are many places that you can go to find it.
Your first decision is deciding if you want to purchase it new, or if you’d like a vintage piece.
While new pieces may be more trendy, vintage pieces hold more traditional value and align with the history of Berber. There is no wrong answer, as both options are wonderful!
Ensemble artisanal de tiznit and Ensemble artisanal de Marrakech are the two best places in Morocco to purchase traditional Moroccan Berber jewelry, as they are large craft markets full of people who hand make these pieces.
You are sure to find a plethora of options, from traditional to dainty and from vintage to new!
Both places can be all day events, as there is so much shopping available there and so much to see, so be sure to plan accordingly.
Shop Authentic Moroccan Berber Jewelry Now!
Whether you’re a tourist just passing through looking for a way to remember Morocco, or you’re someone who deeply values tradition and history, Moroccan Berber jewelry is the perfect ode to Morocco’s past and future.
Moroccan jewelry of all kinds, both handmade and one-of-a-kind, may be found on Etsy from independent merchants.
These traditional jewelry pieces embody the beauty of history and showcase the way that it can mold and change to be relevant even today.
Related Post: Learn more about Moroccan Berber Culture