Wholesale Silver Jewelry: Hill Tribe Silver

Hill Tribe Silver is made by the Karen Tribe in Northern Thailand. Each piece is crafted by hand using techniques passed down from generation to generation. The silver used has a higher silver content at 95% - 99% than "sterling silver," which is 92.5%. More silver in the mix makes for a somewhat softer metal that is easier to bend and shape into the wonderful designs typical of Karen art.

Designs reflect the Karen observations of nature: bumblebees, dragonflies, stars and flowers. In addition, abstract designs like spirals, weaves and braids attach a spiritual signifance when used. No two pieces are exactly alike. Oxidation and hammer marks are part of the allure of this artisan jewelry. Explaining this to your customers will help them appreciate the work that goes into each piece and make it all the more desirable.

Purchases of Hill Tribe Silver help to sustain an indigenous cultural handicraft and provides the Karen people with a reliable source of income.

(This article written by Mike McGinnis and published originally on indiasilver.com. We allow republication provided the piece is copied in its entirety with links and attribution.)