I was born in Nairobi, Kenya in the early 90’s. Although I spent very little time there as a child before my parents migrated to the United States as refugees, much of my adult life has been spent both in Kenya (my birth place) and South Sudan (my native country).
While spending time in Kenya, you can’t help but notice the vibrance in their culture that manifests into their jewelry and clothing. The Maasai, Samburu, Rendille, and the Turkana are all tribes highly recognized by their gorgeous handmade beaded jewelry.
All of the pieces from “Sunset in Kenya” were made by the Maasai tribe, so they will be the focus of this particular blog. As a tribe known for their colorful and intricate beaded handwork, their jewelry are not just decorative pieces, but are vital aspects of the Maasai community. The color of each bead is associated with a certain quality of the tribe. For example, yellow symbolizes health, growth, and light. Orange represents warmth and hospitality. Red is for bravery and sacrifice (often cattle is slaughtered during times of both mourning and celebration). These are only a few examples of the tribal attributes associated with each beaded color, but it helps to understand the richness of the culture.
Now that you have some background on the people of the Maasai, the vibrant culture of Kenya, and their beautiful jewelry; we hope that with each handmade piece you purchase, you embody the qualities of this unique culture and tribe.
Bravery. Strength. Generosity. Growth. ✨