SAEDNEWS: Yazd will unveil a tourist path highlighting its 2,000-year-old handmade jewelry tradition, featuring key sites like the goldsmiths' market and jewelry museums.
According to SAEDNEWS, Officials in Yazd have announced plans to create a tourist route focused on the city's long-standing craft of handmade jewelry, a tradition that has recently earned Yazd the title of a world city of handicrafts from the World Crafts Council.
The proposed tourist route is expected to feature locations such as Yazd’s goldsmith market and its specialized gold museum. Additionally, two urban galleries have been established in collaboration with Yazd Municipality, according to Mehr News Agency.
Yazd’s unique climate, the economic viability of low-water activities, and the dedication, artistry, and taste of its people have all contributed to the flourishing of jewelry craftsmanship in the region.
The tradition of Zargari, or jewelry making, in Yazd spans nearly two millennia, with substantial evidence to support its deep roots in the city. This craft has been handed down through generations, preserving intricate techniques that make Yazdi jewelry virtually unmatched. Some of the oldest pieces, dating back 500 years, are found only in Yazd.
Yazd’s traditional jewelry is categorized into five types based on their purpose: head and hair ornaments, ear accessories, necklaces, bracelets and ankle jewelry, and embellishments for clothing.
The designs of Yazdi jewelry are deeply inspired by elements of nature, including motifs such as flowers, birds, fish, pomegranates, and geometric or abstract patterns.
The creation of these ornaments employs various techniques, such as engraving, sawing, filing, molding, hammering, casting, tapestry, embroidery, enameling, and gem-setting.
Today, Yazdi artisans continue to produce jewelry using traditional methods, paying homage to the skills of previous generations. Despite the modest wages, artisans still rely heavily on hand tools and manual techniques in the crafting and decorating processes.
Modern jewelry workshops have incorporated technologies like computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D printing, while blending traditional aesthetics with contemporary styles, which has helped to distinguish Yazd’s jewelry in both domestic and international markets.
