Wakanda Inspired Jewelry

Marvel Studios' "Black Panther" and "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever," are revolutionary movies that not only broke box office records, but also brought African and Mayan cultures to the forefront. Wakanda and Namor's Talokan civilization in Wakanda Forever are fictional nations full of customs, traditions, and styles.

The designers, Ruth E. Carter and Douriean Fletcher, created unique jewelry pieces that pay homage to African and Mayan histories and cultures while also looking forward to a futuristic, technologically advanced world.

Let's take a closer look at jewelry styles from our Gallery of Designs that are in line with Wakanda style.

Necklaces

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In Wakanda, necklaces play an important role in the adornment of women. The necklaces are made of various materials, such as metal, wood and horn beads. These necklaces are often chunky and have a bold, striking design, making them a focal point of the wearer's outfit. The intricate patterns, geometric shapes and spear and spike-like details are inspired by traditional African jewelry.

One of the most notable pieces of jewelry in the film is the Talon necklace worn by Queen Ramonda, played by Angela Bassett. The necklace is a statement piece made of 3D-printed brass and coated in gold. The design features a central eagle talon surrounded by smaller talons, all connected by interlocking links.

Design with metal sheet, chain, metal beads, wood beads and claw and eagle talon motifs to bring in Mayan influences. Incorporate the colors traditionally used in Mayan weaving including red, black, white and yellow.

Arm Cuffs

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Arm cuffs are a staple of Wakandan jewelry. They are often adorned with gems and intricate designs. These cuffs can be worn on the upper or lower arm and are typically large and chunky. In "Wakanda Forever", the character Okoye wore a unique arm cuff with a spearhead design, which became an instant fan favorite.

Use seed beads, leather cord, bracelet cuffs and wire to create bold arm jewelry. Key motifs include serpents, panthers, claws, geometric shapes, horns and vintage coins.

Headbands

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Headbands are a popular accessory for both men and women in Wakanda. These headbands are adorned with intricate patterns and made of various materials, such as leather, glass beads, aluminum drops and metal.

Earrings

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The earrings in "Wakanda Forever" come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from large and bold to small and delicate. The earrings are often made of metal and feature intricate designs, such as the spiral designs seen on Nakia's earrings. Design similar pieces with polymer clay, seed beads and metal sheet.

Bracelets and More

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Perhaps one of the most memorable pieces of jewelry in the "Black Panther" movies are Kimoyo beads. These beads are more than just an accessory, they are made from the fictional metal vibranium and used for incredibly advanced communication. You can easily create a similar look with Powercord®, DZi-style beads, lava beads and metal beads.

The Dora Milaje, Wakanda's all-female elite warrior group, wear jewelry that is both functional and stylish. Their armor features ornate metalwork and beading, with a distinctive neck ring that gives them a regal appearance. The neck rings are a nod to the real-life African tribe known as the Ndebele, who traditionally wear brass rings around their necks. Lightweight aluminum scales can be used to create elaborate corsets and armor-like accessories.

Overall, the jewelry styles are a unique blend of traditional African and Mayan motifs, along with futuristic designs. The bold, striking designs of the necklaces, arm cuffs, headbands and earrings add to the overall aesthetic of the Wakandan people and have become a cultural phenomenon.