Lanterns Up

“Chinese Tattoos are all the rage. From NBA players to goatied hippies, the exotic elegance of the mysterious Orient has proven irresistible. While it is undeniable that classic Chinese characters have a universal beauty which can easily be appreciated regardless of whether one can understand the often subtle meanings conveyed by the ancient designs, some Westerners have permanently embossed their bodies with symbols that are at times oddly nonsensical and at other times are bizarrely meaningless.

The aesthetic appeal of flowing Chinese calligraphy is easy to understand. “Mom” in Chinese undoubtedly adds a certain intellectualism to this archetypically simple tattoo. Chinese tattoos are a more clever way to express your message.

And while tattoos have always been conversation pieces, a Chinese tattoo adds another element, since the typical viewer will need to ask you the meaning, which allows the wearer to not only translate the characters, but to explain the story behind the decision to make such a lasting statement. The adoption of this fad by the rich, famous and beautiful has certainly made this a more popular trend, but may also make it more “yesterday” as well.”

Consult a native speaker. This will obviously be necessary to get a Chinese name, but should be a required step in getting a Chinese tattoo no matter what. Most universities should have an international population and it should be possible to find a native speaker. Don’t be stupid: fifth-generation Chinese Americans don’t speak any more Chinese than you do.

In the end, this is your tattoo and it primarily has meaning for you. Since it is intended for a Western audience, the Chinese meaning is not critical. Chinese tattoos are great conversation pieces and allow you to express yourself in an interesting and exotic way. Aesthetics should be the first consideration, and Chinese characters are very well suited to that purpose.

Material: Sterling Silver,Turquoise
Region: Miao Minority
Dimensions:length,15.7cm; width,1.5cm

Have a Try!

Style 1	Style 2

A pottery Whistle of Miaos’ Handicraft.

The unique whistle is initiated by Mr.wu guoqing,a respectable master of Miaos’ earthenware.It is a pottery treasure with its interesting design,bright color and fantastic whistling.

Tibetan pendants are among the most stunning jewelry pieces you’ll find on the market today. High in the mountains of Nepal, skilled artisans use the same techniques that have been used for generations to create the most gorgeous silverworks and gem cuts.

Asia is home to some of the worlds finest gemstones, so grand master artisans have a wide variety of stunning stones to work with. Tibetan pendants are often set with green turquoise, red coral, butterscotch yellow amber, carnelian and deep blue lapis lazuli. Gorgeous emeralds, rubies, sapphires, amethysts, citrines and garnets are common as well.