Jewelry plays an important role in the Ghanaian community. They are not just aesthetic items that enhance an individual’s personal adornment, but also have symbolic meanings that reveal the philosophical values, concepts and accepted norms for community life in Ghana. Also, the canoes that are mainly used for fishing activities, especially in the coastal regions of Ghana, particularly among the Fantes in Takoradi, Elmina and Mankessim in the central region of Ghana, have some symbols carved on the wooden canoes. These symbols provide insight into the accepted ethical codes expected of residents of Ghana. Others serve as inspirational messages for anglers as they engage in their fishing activities.

jewelry symbols

The designs or symbols on jewelry products such as necklaces, rings, wristbands, anklets, bracelets, etc. sometimes they have symbolic meanings. Examples of such symbolic objects and animals are discussed below.

1. The mud fish: The usual place for the mud fish is in the water. Therefore, if one manages to catch it and own it, the mudfish becomes their exclusive property. For this reason, the clay fish symbolizes total ownership. If mud fish is in one’s possession, it is the owner’s choice to fry or roast it. The fish can do nothing about its owner’s choice but accept it in good faith. The mud fish, in this case, symbolizes the need to adapt to various situations.

2. The Dove- This is the white bird depicted on the eve of Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River. It is a very peaceful animal. It is a symbol of the presence of the spirit of God and, therefore, of the hope of succeeding in one’s endeavor. Therefore, the dove is a symbol of peace and hope. This explains why at the funeral rites of the late former President of Ghana, Professor Evans Atta Fiifi Mills, doves flew all over the sky because he was hailed as ‘Asomdwoe hene’ (King of Peace).

canoe symbols

These are the symbols found on canoes, often carved and painted. Canoe symbols have proverbial meanings. Most of them are words of advice and caution for anglers. Some also reveal the philosophies, beliefs, social values ​​and concepts of society. Examples of canoe symbols and their meanings are discussed below.

1. The snake and the fish: these two animals are always represented together on the prows of canoes. Sometimes the design is represented by a snake-like fish called ‘Dane woakyi kofa’. This literally means ‘turn around and take’. The snake is said to be waiting for food and the fish is the food that can come from any direction. The snake is always ready to jump and catch fish from any direction. The design symbolizes the cunning and cunning ways of the fishermen. It also portrays your willingness to work at any time.

2. The Anchor.- It is the device that is used to prevent the canoes from being dragged by the current or the waves of the sea or the river. The anchor is therefore a symbol of stability.

3. The Crab- The crab can be represented alone or together with a bird. This symbolizes the fact that a crab does not give birth to a bird, but always gives birth to its kind, hence a crab. It shows that children’s behavior reflects the attitudes and lifestyles of their parents.

4. The seagull bird: This bird usually appears in a particular place in the river or the sea where there is a presence of fish. The gull bird, therefore, directs fishermen to fertile grounds for fishing. It is, therefore, a symbol of hope.

5. The Arrow: This is a symbol made up of an arrow with an arrowhead attached to both ends and a rope loosely wound around the stem. This is called Akosaasan, which means ‘to go into battle and return victorious’. It is a symbol of protection and security.

6. The star: the star serves as a guide for fishermen when they get lost at sea at night. It is the light of the stars that helps them find their way back home. The star is therefore a symbol of hope.

7. The heart: it is a very important organ of the body. It gives life and is very delicate. Anything related to the heart must be handled with patience and the utmost care. The heart is therefore a symbol of patience or tolerance.

8. The Elephant- This animal is the largest in the forest. It symbolizes greatness and royalty. It is used to show the greatness of a particular group of fishermen who have the image of the animal carved and painted on their canoes.

Ghana is a country of traditions and cultures. Therefore, each designed article has designs that transcend beyond the visual perspective, but instead enlighten people about the people’s culture. Therefore, jewelery bearers and canoe users must be brought up to date with symbolic knowledge of these symbols.