As we prepare to roll out new additions to Q.A.C’s webstore, namely the accessories collection, our goal this week is to continue focusing on the tribes which influence some of our new releases. This week we celebrate the Rabari Tribe of India.

As with many of our other tribes highlighted in the “Cultural Beauties” collection, traditionally the Rabari are a nomadic people. Today, they live in western / northwestern portion of India. Their tribal name, which translates to “the outsiders” or “the ones who dwell outside” speaks to their un-sedentary nature. While their exact origins are unknown, some tribute their origins to parts of Afghanistan, having migrated to India thousands of years prior. As seen with the Massai Tribe of last week’s feature, the Rabari are also deeply connected to their cattle and therefore practice vegetarianism. While the men are the sole caregivers of family livestock, in a stark contrast to many of the traditional cultures featured so far, it is the women who take center stage.

Within this tribe, it is the women who are the heads of household as they conduct all business and financial affairs. They are the negotiators as well as the artists of the community. Women of the Rabari tribe are not only known for their detailed embroidery, beadwork, and handmade sculptures which contain patterns reflecting tribal history and important tribal rituals … they are also known for their incredible jewelry.

Women of this tribe have been known to wear their heavy silver jewelry in the hottest of climates. Not only is it worn as a sign of beauty, but it is also worn as we a tool to differentiate themselves from the 133 other sub-groups that are a part of this tribe! Rabari women are typically found wearing long black head dresses, heavy brass jewelry, stretched earlobes, and symbolic tattoos on their necks, breast, and arms. The beauty of these women and their cultural aesthetic, especially their jewels, have influenced every free-spirited bohemian across the globe. They are the originators!

*beautiful images via Before They

Interested in owning your owning your own set of bangles direct from India? Check out the latest additions to the Queen Adwoa's Closet accessories collection!

Shop Rabari Bangles

Shop Rewari Bangles