Amber Necklace


This necklace represents trade routes used in Somalia through both its design and the materials used in its creation. The design of the necklace suggests that it was made in the Arabian Peninsula and later travelled to Somalia. The necklace itself holds meaning in Somali culture, despite originating from another region. In Somali culture, necklaces are worn to showcase the wealth and prestige of a family, similar to how expensive jewelry is worn by the wealthy in our society. Additionally, the materials of this necklace hold meaning, with both amber and agate believed to hold healing and protective powers amongst the peoples of the Horn of Africa.

Necklace with large stone beads and an elaborate silver pendant. The silver pendant has three inlaid stones, and several round silver bells attached by connected rings.




Resources

Resource 1

Africa and the Silk Road

This article gives an overview of Africa's rich cultural history and involvement in the international spice and silk trade. 

Resource 2

Headrest- The Met

This headrest at the Met Museum is another example of Somali craftsmanship. The headrest was made a century or two later than the amber necklace. At the bottom of the page on the Met website, you can see other similar artifacts in their collection. Click the "From Somalia" button to see more items from the same country.