Silver, Gold, and Gems: A Spotlight on Jewelry Across Africa

For the first time, the Cleveland Museum of Art presents a permanent display of gold and silver jewelry from across Africa. The selection includes glittering ornaments from the Akan states of West Africa, gemstones from the Maghreb, hair accessories from ancient Egypt, and five recently gifted Ethiopian necklaces. Spanning thousands of years, these works highlight the richness of African creativity, the exceptional skills of its jewelers, and the enduring human desire for adornment.

Disk Pendant (akrafokɔnmu), 1800s, before 1871; pin added later. Africa, West Africa, Ghana, Asante Empire/ Kingdom, member of the goldsmiths’ guild.