EXHIBITION: The Soul of Frank T. Fraley: Health and Wellness Through the Power of Gems, Jewels, and Stones. This body of work is titled "African Cultural Jewelry Promoting Health & Wellness". He has had many wonderful opportunities to create and design across cultures, but by far his favorite designs and creations originate from the deep, enriching heritage of his West African roots.
African Jewelry items tend to be big, bold and chunky using ethnic and metal beads, ostrich and ebony discs, beaten silver and mineral stones. Gemstones, precious and semi precious, new and antique, have decorative and spiritual properties that are highly valued and increasingly in demand.
FIT Gallery Exhibit, with Dr. Frank P. Flores, Frank Fraley and Franklin Fraley, FIT Alum and photographer.
Frank Fraley engaging with visitors touring the exhibit.
Afro Pick with Sterling Silver toggle clasp on assorted Tourmaline beads.
Larimar ring. Larimar is a rare blue variety of the silicate mineral pectolite found only in Hispaniola, in the Caribbean.
Frank Fraley, honored to exhibit at his alma mater, FIT and share his journey with the audience.
The Fraley Family comes out to support this wonderful exhibit. Elijah, Frank, Lisa, Danika and Franklin. Missing Langston (Morgan State Junior.)
Fulani earrings and bracelets have been a tradition of the Fulani people for centuries. Women of the royal class wore them in solid gold as a sign of wealth and nobility.
Waist beads hold deep cultural significance peculiar to the different African societies. Worn by women, these beads are viewed as a symbol of femininity, fertility, sensuality, and spiritual well-being.
Waist beads & African fabric, elegance on display.