Akan Totem Set

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Forged by local Ghanaian artisans and smiths at our Kumasi workshop using the lost wax casting process. Our beautiful gender neutral Cowrie ring is made of 23 karat gold over brass and silver over brass. Our pieces are known to be conversation starters and a casual statement piece to be worn at any occasion. 

Due to the handmade nature of this item, each piece is unique, one of the same & any variations are considered part of the beauty of the design. 

If you are a half size, order a size below and make note in purchase.

  • Mudfish: The mudfish is a character symbol of the king, for just as the mudfish is able to move between the aquatic and terrestrial realms, the king is able to move between the world of the living and the world of the spirits. It is also a symbol of wealth and the ability to survive where others would perish. It is often represented in the brass weights once used in Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire to measure gold dust.
  • Cowrie: A spiritual symbol that represents a connection to the spirit realm and the ocean.
  • Ɔdɛnkyɛm (Crocodile): The old proverb states that the crocodile lives in water but breathes in air. It reflects on its humble and patient nature. This fuels it's stealth used to cripple and condemn its enemy. 
  • Sankofa Bird: Go back into the past if it will help you for the future.
  • Leaf (Ahaban): Normally used for medicinal purposes, they are boiled and then drunk.
  • (Snail) Nnwa: No matter how fast or slow you go, you will get to your destination. 
  • Nsuonam (Fish): The old proverb states that the crocodile lives in water but breathes in air. It reflects on its humble and patient nature. This fuels it's stealth used to cripple and condemn its enemy. 

This collection is inspired by the role of the “Saanahene” which translates as keeper of the King's or state's treasures. A role inducted by Otumfuo Opoku Ware hundreds of years ago to create an overseer of his treasures amongst other financial roles. The Saanahene oversees relics and gold only known to the Asantehene and the Saanahene. Here is an imaginative expository of some of those relics in contemporary fashion.

We are Ghanaians and a black owned small business in love with our culture with a mission to share a piece of our heritage with the rest of the world.

  • Investing in the health and economy of the communities that are affected by precious metals, gemstone mining, and manufacturing in particular Ghana.
  • DIRECTLY supporting a local artisan and manufacturing economy.
  • Investing in the growth of a sustainable jewelry industry.

 

 

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Why The Akan Index?

Handmade in Ghana

Authenticity is everything. We felt that it would not pay homage to our rich culture to place the production of our artifacts in the hands of others. Therefore we employ local smiths and artisans here in Ghana who understand the cultural relevance of our products to design and produce our pieces.

Responsible Labor

We've taken an oath to support healthy, happy & financially beneficial working conditions. We directly employ the original smiths of our ancient jewelery with fair wages and give tribute to the royals who have adorned them for generations. No part of our supply chain is left out, and we're always working to do better.

Cultural Education

Before you wear our pieces, we strive for you to know the history and significance of what you wear and of the people who craft them. It's not just a trendy fashion statement, it's a historical piece that connects us to a lineage of black culture going back thousands of years.

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