​   ​One of the most highly developed forms of Kazakh folk art is jewelry-making, which holds a special place in the history of national culture. Its origins date back to ancient times: archaeological evidence shows that gold, silver, copper, tin, and lead were mined in Kazakhstan, and through forging, casting, and stamping, people produced tools, ornaments, and various objects. Since the Neolithic era, people have worn bracelets and necklaces made from bone and shells. Jewelry served not only as adornment but also as a talisman, believed to possess protective and magical powers. Men often used the bones and teeth of hunted animals as ornaments, symbolizing strength and bravery. Over time, the decorative role of jewelry became dominant, while its protective function remained secondary. With the development of metallurgy, amulets and talismans began to be made from copper, silver, and gold, often plated and decorated with precious stones. As early as the 2nd millennium BCE, techniques such as casting, forging, engraving, filigree, gilding, granulation, and inlay were practiced. During the Early Iron Age, the “animal style” flourished, with artisans skillfully combining precious metals, gems, embossing, and intricate decorative methods. Jewelry art thus reflects not only craftsmanship and aesthetics but also the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Kazakh people.
  The craft of working iron and creating household items is among the oldest professions. In Turkic-speaking communities, blacksmiths were believed to possess mystical powers and were held in high esteem. They were known as ұста (master), дархан (blacksmith), шебер (craftsman). Blacksmiths preserved the secrets of their trade and passed them down through generations. Only men were allowed to practice this craft, mastering the techniques of forging hot iron, casting it into molds, and welding pieces together. Workshops, commonly called “düken”, were usually built in courtyards or adapted from old yurts. They contained a forge, bellows, a heavy anvil, various hammers, tongs, chisels, and other sturdy tools—many of which the craftsmen made themselves. Blacksmiths primarily produced tools and equipment for animal husbandry and farming. In addition, they fulfilled custom orders, making everyday household items and decorative objects.