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Since the 1990's interest in Tibetan culture has grown as this once inaccessible part of the world has hit the headlines again and again. This article considers the importance of jewelry pendants to this magical Chinese province steeped in history and tradition. Jewelry pendants -- prayer boxes Tibetans wear jewelry as a symbol of their Buddhist beliefs. Their jewelry often takes the form of important deities or symbolizes important Tibetan rituals like mantras or dorjes. Pendant necklaces are an important part of Tibetans' daily lives. The most important and symbolic type of jewelry pendants found in Tibet and Buddhism are prayer boxes. A prayer box or Ghau (also spelled Gau or Gao), is a Tibetan Buddhist amulet usually made of sterling silver and encrusted with turquoise gemstones. There is usually a written prayer or a sacred mantra such as the kalachakra kept within the prayer box. These are usually transcribed by a Buddhist priest or Lama. Tibetans will ask a Lama to bless and fill their prayer box with sacred items to protect the wearer. Jewelry pendants often include turquoise in intricate inlay designs. Turquoise gemstones Throughout history gemstones have been used in necklace jewelry as a sign of prosperity being delivered by the gods themselves. Tibetan silver necklaces are no different with the turquoise gemstone being the prominent gemstone favored by Tibetan craftsman. Tibetan people use the turquoise to make turquoise jewelry with copper and silver, in the belief that this will bring them power, fortune and good health. Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones in the world. It has been used and revered for hundreds of years with turquoise necklaces and pendants finding their way into many cultures and traditions, but none more so than in Tibetan culture. Turquoise is traditionally regarded as a protecting stone as well as providing wealth in many ancient civilizations. The turquoise gemstone symbolizes friendship and peace. In Tibetan culture the stone is said to protect the carrier from the negative forces of the universe if received from a true friend. Tibetans believe that turquoise has the following healing powers as part of its powers of protection: 1.It plays a role in preventing acid in the stomach
2.It helps to soothe stomach problems, rheumatism, viral infections and gout 3.It increases muscle strength and endurance and helps muscles to grow 4.It prevents cramps and helps soothe pain 5.It is anti-inflammatory 6.It has detoxifying properties Tibetans believe that when turquoise is combined with copper or silver its power is increased. Tibetan Jewelry pendants [http://www.tibetansilverjewelry.com/Tibetan-Ghao-Boxes_c2.htm] create a sense of mystical power which sits alongside their obvious natural beauty. The designs can range from simple, plain symbols to incredibly complex and intricate patterns filled with color. These pendant necklaces are often handcrafted by Tibetan craftsman for their people and they are a representation of the intense religious beliefs held by their wearers. It is likely that the growing interest in Tibet and Buddhism and the natural beauty of the stones and their design will ensure the popularity of Tibetan jewelry will continue to rise in the Western world.
May Wu lives and works in Beijing China. As a follower of Buddhism, she regularly travels to Tibet to spend time with her fellow Buddhist practitioners. In her time in Tibet she has forged a strong relationship with the local craftsmen and she sells their beautifully crafted handmade jewelry pendants [http://www.tibetansilverjewelry.com/Tibetan-Ghao-Boxes_c2.htm] in her online store.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Xing_Wu
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