Mystics and Sages began with a gift—a small half-moon necklace encircled with tiny glass beads, given to Baiyinah our founder, by her father upon his return from a trip to West Africa. This sparked her curiosity, leading her to learn about the rich cultural traditions of the Tuareg. Tuareg jewelry is not merely for adornment; each piece is imbued with rich folklore, geometric motifs, and archaic symbolism representing spirituality, the environment, and cosmology. Our jewelry is not just merely objects; each piece represents the tangible result of multiple generations of passed-down skills, knowledge, traditions, and wisdom. Our jewelry is a cultural experience.

The Tuareg are a historically nomadic people spread across Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, Libya, and Algeria, known for their distinctive culture and shimmering indigo attire. Despite facing numerous challenges, including colonialism, and modern governmental pressures, they have retained their resilience and independence, which has contributed to their almost mythic quality.  Embodying a rich cultural heritage rooted in their Amazigh identity that spans over seven thousand years.

Tuareg jewelry craftsmen are considered the original silversmiths of Africa, using the ancient lost-wax casting technique. This process starts with a detailed wax model, which is encased in a heat-resistant mold. Heat melts the wax, creating a negative space for molten metal, which takes the shape of the model as it cools. The artisan then refines, polishes, and shapes the piece into its final form. Most of our Tuareg cross designs are made using this method.