Head to Thailand and you’re bound to find a wealth of silk scarves and garments for sale. Silk goods are some of the country’s most popular souvenirs. Read all about this beautiful material! The Legend of Silk Empress Si...
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You may have spotted it in jewelry or in décor: a symmetrical hand which faces forward and is sometimes set with an eye. Known as the hamsa, this symbol has been around for hundreds of years. But what does...
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From King Tut’s mask to the pyramids, ancient Egypt is full of iconic imagery. But the Eye of Horus is one of the most prolific symbols from the era. What is it and what does it mean? The Eye...
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If you travel around northern Canada, Alaska, or even Greenland, you may spot large rock formations towering over the landscape. But what are these massive rock piles and what do they represent? The Origin of Inuksuit An inukshuk (pl. inuksuit)...
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On Cultural Elements, we’ve talked extensively about the different fabrics that come from around the world. And if you shop the website, you’ll notice accessories and apparel made of all sorts of materials. To help you navigate the how...
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Carved into statues, vases, bowls, and more, African soapstone is one of the most well-known handicrafts from East Africa! Learn all about this popular material and how it goes from giant chunks of rock to beautiful art. What is...
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Travel to Guatemala’s markets and you might catch a glimpse of their exquisite textiles, which boast beautiful patterns in bold colors. But did you know? Weaving is not just a signature Guatemalan handicraft, it’s a tradition that spans generations...
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Lightweight and lustrous, silk is one of the finest fabrics available. Yet few understand the processes used to create it. It turns out, not all silk is created equal. What is Ahimsa Silk? The fibers used to make silk...
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A region of rich artistry, Southeast Asia is home to a wide range of beautiful textiles. One of the most famous styles of textiles is known as kantha. What is Kantha? Kantha (pronounced kahn-taa) refers to a method of...
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Many of us have someone in our lives we can share our worries with, someone who is willing to hear our burdens. But for those times we need a little extra support, there are worry dolls. Worry dolls are...
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