Adinkra Ivory on Antique Bone Batik Gye Nyame Pendant with Silver Cap and Loop

Adinkra are ancient African visual symbols or motifs that date back to the Akan people in 19th century Ivory Coast and Ghana and express history, culture, beliefs and philosophy. While many symbols represent a proverb or piece of Akan wisdom, other symbols may depict historical events, customs, culture, the natural world or environment.  (Not all symbols have a proverbial expression. Adinkra have historically been painted or printed onto cloth which was then worn during important sacred ceremonies including funerals, weddings, naming festivities and more.  Contemporary use of Adinkra symbols has widened to use in jewelry, architecture and home decor.  

Adinkra Symbol:  Gye nyame

Literal meaning:  Except God

Symbolic meaning: Omnipotence and immortality of God