Silyanka: A Ukrainian Beaded Ornament with a Deep History

In the times of our great-grandmothers, a woman's marital status, wealth, and even housekeeping skills could be determined by her costume and ornaments. In our imagination, the typical ornament of a Ukrainian woman is multi-layered beads. However, this is not entirely accurate. Ukrainian women wore a variety of ornaments: earrings , gerdans, silyankas, beaded belts, necklaces, and bracelets.

Today, we will talk about silyankas or "pletynka"—strips of colorful beads tied at the back of the neck. These ornaments usually feature geometric or floral patterns.

Where Does the Name "Silyanka" Come From?

The name of the ornament originates from its method of creation. It has no relation to the words "villager" or "village." The term "silyanka" comes from the verb "silyaty"—to string beads onto a thread. This is one of the oldest techniques for creating bead ornaments in Ukraine.

History and Origin

The silyanka as an ornament has ancient origins, dating back to pre-Christian times. Ornaments made from strung beads, prototypes of modern beadwork, have been found during archaeological excavations of Kyivan Rus. The widespread use of silyankas began in the 19th century when glass beads became accessible thanks to the development of trade and industrial production in Europe. Czech beads were particularly popular.

Silyankas were most widespread in the western regions of Ukraine: Hutsulshchyna, Boykivshchyna, Pokuttya, Opillia, Bukovyna, and Zakarpattia. It was there that craftswomen created the most diverse patterns and techniques.

Meaning and Symbolism

1. Amulet: Silyankas, typically two to three centimeters wide, were worn daily as amulets. A glance at the pattern was enough to understand what it was meant to protect the wearer from. To enhance the protective power, Hutsuls would sew a beaded ribbon with a protective pattern onto a red strip of fabric. 

2. Patterns: Traditional silyanka patterns include geometric shapes: diamonds, triangles, waves, and zigzags. Diamonds symbolized fertility, triangles—harmony, and zigzags—infinity. 

   

3.   Colors:

   •   Red: life, love, protection.

   •   Black: earth, fertility.

   •   White: purity.

   •   Blue: spirituality.

4. Social Status: The number and quality of silyankas depended on the family's wealth. They were also part of festive women's attire and were often given as gifts for weddings or special occasions. In some regions, silyankas were included in a bride's dowry. 

   

Silyankas in Modern Times

Today, silyankas have regained popularity due to the revival of Ukrainian traditions. They are created as exact replicas of antique ornaments or in modern interpretations. This ornament has become a symbol of Ukrainian identity and craftsmanship. It is used in national clothing as well as contemporary design.

Original 19th-century silyankas are preserved in Ukrainian museums and inspire modern artisans. In Zakarpattia, similar ornaments were called "pletynku" or "vyazku."

                   Conclusion

 Silyanka is more than just an ornament. It is a      part of Ukraine's cultural heritage, carrying the history of our people through its patterns and colors. Each silyanka is a unique work of art that preserves the soul of its creator and the traditions passed down through generations.  Explore our collections of both authentic replicas inspired by museum pieces and contemporary Silyankas crafted with a modern touch.