The majority of jewelry in our collection, is from the ethnic minority tribe Miao in China.
With a population of almost 9 million people, this tribe makes one of the largest minority groups in China. After immigration in a long history, today they live mainly in Guizhou, Yunnan, Hunan, Hubei, Hanain and the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Prefecture. They are divided into several branches, such as Black Hmong, White Hmong, Striped Hmong, etc.
The Miao people are very skilled at handicrafts, such as embroidering, weaving, paper-cutting, batik and jewel casting. The Miao embroidery and silver jewelry are delicate and beautiful.
The Miao ethnic group’s silver ornaments are second to none, both in terms of quantity and variety. Miao women’s festive attire includes a variety of silver decorations, weighing as much as 15 kilos! The purpose of wearing all this silver is of course primarily aesthetic, but it also shows affluence and is thought to wards off evil spirits.
While usually worn by women, the Miao ethnic minority’s silverware is made by men. Categorized by functions, there are hats, clothing, necklaces, bracelets, and rings. The level of craftsmanship ranges from relatively