The Western Bling: Learn More About The Jewelry Cowboys Used

From the glint of silver and turquoise to the intricate patterns of leather and metal, each piece of cowboy jewelry carried a rich tapestry of history and heritage. These accessories weren't just embellishments; they were artifacts of a bygone era, imbued with the spirit of the frontier and the resilience of those who called it home. Cowboys in the American West also wore jewelry, although it was typically less elaborate compared to their clothing and accessories. Keep reading for a brief history of the jewelry commonly worn by cowboys.

• Concho Belts: Concho belts are wide leather belts adorned with conchos—ornamental discs often made of silver. These belts were originally crafted by Native American silversmiths and later adopted by cowboys as a stylish accessory. Concho belts were both functional and decorative, serving as a statement piece for cowboy attire.

• Hatbands: Cowboys often adorned their hats with decorative hatbands, typically made of leather, fabric, or braided horsehair. These hatbands served as a way to personalize their hats and express their individual style.

• Earrings: While less common than other types of jewelry, some cowboys wore earrings as personal adornments. Earrings were typically small and understated, often made of silver or other metals.

• Silver and Turquoise: Silver jewelry, often adorned with turquoise stones, was popular among cowboys. Turquoise was particularly favored for its vibrant color and was believed to have protective qualities. Native American artisans crafted intricate silver jewelry, including rings, bracelets, and necklaces, which cowboys often wore as decorative accents.

• Last but not least, we have the Bolo Tie: This piece became a symbol of Western identity and pride. Politicians and performers often wore these iconic ties, their clasps gleaming with the spirit of the frontier. The bolo tie was more than just an accessory; it was a badge of honor, a nod to the rugged individualism and enduring spirit of the American West. When Arizona declared the bolo tie its official state neckwear in 1971, it was a moment of recognition for a symbol deeply woven into the fabric of Western culture. Other states soon followed suit, honoring the bolo tie as a cherished emblem of regional heritage. 

For Dionne Rêve, the rich history of the bolo tie has inspired the creation of one of our very own jewelry pieces, Le Coquillage Multiway Tie Necklace. We crafted a bolo-inspired necklace that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. This necklace pays homage to the heritage of the bolo tie while infusing it with a fresh perspective as it can be worn different ways: as a bolo necklace, as a choker tied in a cute bow or tie it around your waist as a chic belt.