Beautiful Jewelry on a Budget, Afro-Caribbean Style

Some of the jewelry I've collected from Barbados and Harlem over the years.

I don't spend much money at all on jewelry.

Why?  Because to me the prettiest, most feminine and colorful jewelry items are handmade from local shops in the Diaspora.

Where?  Try a beach side in the Caribbean, or bustling 125th street in Harlem.  Brooklyn is another place, and I'm sure Africa has plenty stands and shops as well.  Actually, most North American inner cities have Afrocentric shops where you can find some of the most unique and attractive pieces of jewelry.  Yes, my taste happens to be more "ethnic" items.   But in general, being the Virgo that I am, I simply love something neat and bright that makes a quiet colorful statement.  Like a simple earring with a peachy tangerine or bracelet made out of turquoise shells or how about a shark tooth hanging from my neck?  You can pair these items to make a simple outfit pop and run out the door! There is almost always room for bargaining, especially when you purchase multiple items.  Plus you meet fascinating people (usually brothers) from all over the world.  Personally, I'm always picking them for information about how they were able to open up their own stand or shop, because I would love to do the same!  I would say about 90% of my jewelry comes from these venues. 

Jewelry in Oistins, Barbados

The Caribbean - Well, I've only been to Barbados, but there are outdoor stands everywhere and every glowing Caribbean day (and night) with gorgeous earrings, bracelets, rings, artwork etc for extremely reasonable prices.  Everything has an exquisite Caribbean flair to it.  I'm talking items that just flatter brown complexions.  And you'll never see anyone back here with the same piece!  Most of the items are $2 - $30 USD.  Tiffany's who? Try the St. Lawrence Gap in Barbados any day or night or even better, a Friday night at Oistins fish fry - jewelry low priced jewelry for DAYS!

Jewelry at the African Market on 116th Street in Harlem

Harlem/Brooklyn - Lots of Afrocentric shops that sell African fabrics and artwork also sell lots of beautiful jewelry.  So much to choose from you won't know to do with yourself.  Take a trip to 125th or 116th streets in Harlem, NY.  Also sells at a very low cost... items from about $7 - 30.

I can't wait to one day visit India and check out their local jewelry selection.  I think I will probably pass out!!