Acehnese Jewelry (Aceh)

Acehnese Jewelry (Aceh)

Situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, Indonesia has 127 active volcanoes and approximately 500 inactive ones. The rich volcanic soil contributes to a fertile land, such as in Aceh, and is reflected in their traditional accessories.

The taloe jaroe ngoen euncin meukarang is an Acehnese bridal accessory worn on both hands, and is comprised of five rings that interconnect to a jeweled base which is itself attached to a bracelet. The dainty chainlinks that join the three components contribute to the shimmer and delicate appearance.

The bejeweled rings and base often take shape as flowers, for instance jasmine and sunflower—bungong meulu and bungong mata uroe in Acehnese. These flowers—and other simplified flaura motifs such as leaves, roots, and branches—speak of the mesmerizing beauty of the fertile earth, and of the splendor of heaven.

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