History of Silver Jewelry in Anatolia
Silver mining began between 5,000 and 6,000 years ago in Anatolia, the
heartland of modern Turkey. Silver has been the material and spiritual mainstay
over the centuries. It is also believed that jingling sound coming from the
jewelry pieces as one moves will protect the wearer from venomous reptiles and
also according to an ancient shamanistic belief, from evil spirits. Besides its
protective quality, silver jewelry was used a fine accessory by ancient women
to enhance their beauty. From the forehead to ankle, silver was worn both by
women and men. Silver was also widely used in Ottoman jewelry with precious
gems in which the nature of the stone and silver are given prominence. They
were mostly designed with natural motifs and meticulously crafted details make
them such unique. Silvers adorned with Silver Filigree (Telkari) and
Granulation styled ornaments are most famous examples of Orientalism style, a
cultural synthesis of Anatolian civilizations.
The art of jewelry in Anatolia goes back to 4000 BC, reached its peak
in 3000 BC, and has been developing ever since then. Today many silversmiths,
goldsmiths and jewelers in Turkey continue their artworks and creating unique
masterpieces.