Typical Ibizan jewellery: a beautiful tradition
In today's article we are going to immerse ourselves in one of Ibiza's oldest artistic and religious expressions: its traditional jewellery.
If we ever have the opportunity to participate in Ibiza's popular festivals, we will see the beauty of the traditional "payeses" costumes. There is one aspect that stands out from all the costumes: some very attractive necklaces called "emprendadas".
What is the Ibicencan "emprendada"?
These necklaces are called "emprendada ibicenca" and can be made of coral and silver or gold (the latter being the most colourful), forming chains, crosses and reliquaries.
These are used depending on the occasion and the clothing itself, although perhaps one of the most popular reasons to wear the "emprendada" gold is a wedding.
The filigree that can be appreciated in the latter are of a very showy beauty. Today local craftsmen and jewelers continue to work the "emprendadas", getting unique pieces that combine tradition and contemporaneity.
The rings in typical Ibizan jewellery
Another of the best-known traditions in terms of folkore and popular culture of Ibiza are the gold rings. They are usually square in shape and contain an engraving of the family coat of arms or emblem.
But the rings have also played a significant role in traditional Ibizan weddings. In the past it was quite common for the groom to give away 24 rings as a dowry or as a demonstration of wealth.
Decoration, tribute or simple attire, these pieces are still highly valued in the culture of the island.
A purely handcrafted work
This profession is still active today. The work to make the typical jewellery of Ibiza is totally handcrafted and is maintained by some of the most experienced family firms on the island.
But this expression of Ibiza's culture also serves to inspire more modern creations, based on the filigree and traditional way of making Ibiza's jewellers.
An example of this respect for tradition and its contemporization could be Elisa Pomar, one of Ibiza's most famous jewellers.
Clothing, a jewel in itself
Although the "emprendadas" and the rings may be the most showy pieces, the fact is that the traditional attire of the Ibizans is already a jewel in itself.
One of the best opportunities to see these traditional elements in context is, without a doubt, to attend a "ballada". That is to say, to a typical dance celebrated in the patron celebrations of the parishes of the island.
In these events you can enjoy the Ibizan culture in its maximum splendour.
Houses in the "finca payesa" style
Are you looking to buy a property in Ibiza? If you are in love with the island, you love its folklore and culture (like the typical jewellery we talked about) and you are thinking about living or investing in Ibiza, in our blog we have an article that may interest you.
Don't miss our post about the architecture of Ibiza and the "finca ibicenca" style properties we have for sale.
Photos: Giuseppe Concas
