Celuk

A silver-spun dragon twice encircles the wrist to form a bracelet sold in the village of Celuk, a center of gold and silver work. Original designs in delicate filigree make Balinese jewelry one of the most unusual styles in Asia. Although individual pieces are elaborate, they have simple origins in their making. Artisans use a tree stump with a protruding iron spike as a pounding base, a bamboo stem to catch the filings, and a manually operated gas pump for heat. As with most Balinese crafts, gold and silver work is largely an hereditary trade. Apprentices begin young. By the time the boys are twelve, they are already producing fine ornaments from the precious metals. However, the increased demand by tourists has resulted in the craft extending beyond the traditional clan. Almost every family in Celuk now makes or sells gold and silver work. Kuta and Kamasan (near Klungkung) are other such smithing centers, the latter famous for large silver bowls.