Himalayan Bead Society: What are the Techniques of Tibetan and Nepalese Jewelry making?

What are the Techniques of Tibetan and Nepalese Jewelry making?

Tibetan jewelry pieces are made with technique of repoussé and chasing on silver, brass and copper. Repoussé is a metalworking technique which is ornamented or shaped by hammering from the reverse side of metal sheet. While repoussé is used to work on the reverse of the metal to form a raised design on the front, chasing is used to refine the design on the front of the work by sinking the metal. The motifs and designs are created by hammering on the metal sheet after putting the resin and wax underneath. Chasing is the opposite technique to repoussé, and the two are used in conjunction to create a finished piece such as beads, pendants, bracelets, earrings, necklaces, animal pendants, etc.

This primitive technique of jewelry making has been used since 3rd century BC in the Himalayan region. The artisans are very skilled; their skill has been passed down from their forefathers. They use traditional techniques, working with few hand tools.