The national decorative and applied arts of the Turkmen people are truly unique and one of a kind.
The Turkmen carpet is a national treasure of Turkmenistan — exceptionally beautiful and, according to a Turkmen proverb, the “soul of a Turkmen,” becoming even richer and more vibrant with time. It is renowned worldwide. The meanings of carpet ornaments date back centuries and reflect the surrounding reality. Octagonal motifs (göls), crosses, stepped pyramids, zigzags, and images of rams, horses, and camels, stylized into well-thought-out compositions, inspire admiration, as does the labor-intensive carpet-weaving process passed down from generation to generation.
Embroidery is another essential element of Turkmen culture, reflecting the history, customs, and traditions of the people and symbolizing the nature of Turkmenistan. Each region has its own distinctive patterns and color palette, and ancient ornaments have been preserved to this day. Special embroidery techniques and the use of natural dyes allow the beauty of these works to endure over time.
The Turkmen people are also famous for their jewelry craftsmanship, which immerses visitors in the rich heritage of the East. The noble shine of gilded silver, the “fiery” carnelian, the “fortune-bringing” turquoise, and the “revitalizing” onyx, combined with symmetrical designs and unique national ornamentation, create harmony, elegance, refinement, and beauty that captivate even the most discerning connoisseurs. Exquisite traditional women’s jewelry — brooches, bracelets, rings, pendants, and earrings — deserves special attention among the creations of Turkmen jewelers.
The impressive depth of handmade carpets, the delicate charm and vivid colors of national embroidery, and the captivating allure of jewelry masterpieces inspire awe, amazement, and admiration, leaving no visitor indifferent.