A home to jewelers and master silver and gold artisans, Bali is a small island located in Indonesia. The jewelers of the island have become famous for their detailed and original pieces of silver jewelry.
Traditional methods are used to produce the silver jewelry from Bali. A strong Southern Chinese and Southeast Asian influence can be seen in the art, and many of the patterns and designs used in the different cultures have similar elements. The artisans from other countries came to Bali during the Majapahit Empire, and many families in Bali can trace their ancestors back to this time. In addition to the Chinese and Asian influences, Bali was invaded by the Javanese in the early 16th century. At this time the people of Bali began to use a term for silversmiths that meant both “smith" and “clever". This word was Pandai, and continues to be used today. In traditional folk legend the gods themselves came to teach the Pandai clans the art of gold and silver working to bring civilization to humans.
While originally done in gold, most jewelry from Bali is now silver. The worldwide demand for silver jewelry controls the production, and the islanders have adapted their industry. Bali jewelry is comprised of both traditionally Bali and Javanese traditions. The Javanese silversmiths use a fine filigree work on a smooth polished silver background. The Bali artisans use a technique called granulation, which has small dots or circles of polished silver placed on an unpolished silver background. These two art forms are often combined and make unique and striking jewelry.
Bali jewelry is also unique in the way that it combines silver, gems and various metals. The gems and other metals are highlighted against the background of the unpolished silver, to really draw out the highlights of the contrasting elements. In addition to the traditional jewelry, a woven silver and gold style is being produced, and has become very popular in many countries.
Demand
One of the characteristics of Bali jewelry is that an individual item can often be identified as coming from a certain jeweler or family just by studying the particular pattern of the granulation. This feature has made Bali jewelry very important to collectors around the world. The interplay of gems, metals and intricate patterns produces truly eye-catching items.
Silver beads are another item produced in Bali. These beads are very ornate and seem impossibly patterned given their small size. Commercial and home hobby jewelers value these detailed beads and use them in their own jewelry making.
The exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail has increased the popularity of Bali jewelry. The internet has opened up new markets, and the demand for this beautiful jewelry will only continue to increase.
Cory Willins is a personal fan of Bali jewelry. She writes for
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