
KAZYZIYE FINE JEWELLERY
Kazaziye is a meticulous and intricate art form that requires a high level of skill and precision.
The process begins with the preparation of the wires. Kazaziye uses 24 carat pure gold or 1000 carat pure silver wires. These wires are incredibly fine, with a thickness of just 0.8 to 0.9 microns. The wires are then carefully twisted to create a stronger and more durable thread. This step requires steady hands and a lot of patience, as the wires are very delicate.
Once the wires are twisted, the real artistry begins. The twisted wires are knitted into intricate patterns and designs. This is done using special tools and techniques passed down through generations. The process is similar to knitting or crochet, but on a much smaller and more detailed scale.The knitted wire is then shaped into various forms such as earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and other jewellery pieces. Finally, the jewellery is polished to bring out the shine of the gold or silver.
The entire process requires exceptional dexterity and a keen eye for detail. The masters of this craft, known as Kazaz, often spend years perfecting their skills. The end result is a piece of jewellery that is not only beautiful but also a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Anatolian people.
This art form was most likely inherited by the people living in Anatolia (modern-day Turkey) from the Lydians, who ruled until the 6th century BC. During the Ottoman period, many Anatolian artisans created jewellery for the palace, which helped to refine the techniques of Kazaziye.
Today, the art of Kazaziye has almost vanished, and only a handful of talented artists still master this ancient handicraft, making Kazaziye jewellery highly valued and timeless. The center for today's Kazaziye production lies in the beautiful small city of Trabzon, on Turkey's Black Sea coast.