Silver – Thailand

The Akha are a semi-nomadic tribe who make their homes along steep slopes of high mountains. Originally from Tibet, the Akha migrated to Thailand during the past 200 years. The Akha adorn themselves in intricate silver ornamentation and embroidered textiles. Their economy is based on rice, corn and opium. The Akha believe in animism, with an emphasis on ancestral worship; Shamanism too, has remained an important part of their culture These ancient peoples continue to cross national borders, often fleeing oppression by other cultures, without regard or attachment to the countries in which they reside. Partially because of this they remain an extremely poor minority, unable to own land or receive health care.