Belly dancing jewelry is often though of as flashy and sometimes tacky. This is usually because some amateur dances tend to overload on the belly dancing jewelry in their enthusiasm to look like the real thing. The truth is that authentic belly dancers don't wear a lot of jewelry and will vary their jewelry according to the type of dance they are performing.

Keep the jewelry simple and every time you are considering using a piece of jewelry stop and think about how it affects your routine and movements. You want to feel comfortable while dancing and don't want to have something hurt you in the middle of a performance.

Headdress

Having a headdress as part of your costume is definitely a bold and dramatic statement. It looks very regal and exotic and is a unique piece of belly dancing jewelry. You can buy a headdress that looks very similar to what Egyptian queens were portrayed as wearing.

Usually these headdresses are made of coins or beads that involve an amulet draped on the forehead with beads and chains that go through the hair. Before buying a headdress remember that anything that is heavy can feel uncomfortable when you are dancing.

Worse still a headdress might actually be dangerous. If you are using a veil or scarves in your routine then beware your props getting caught or tangled in your headdress. If you have chosen to keep your headdress in place with pins or combs then watch out for your beautiful headdress falling off during your performance!

Bells and Jewels

Wearing anklets and bracelets with bells on them are an accepted form of belly dancing jewelry. These pieces of jewelry can enhance your show and create a pleasant tinkling sound when you move. Belly chains with small bells are another form of belly dancing jewelry that can enhance your performance. The belly chain will attract attention to the form of your body and hips while you perform.

There is another form of belly dancing jewelry that has created some confusion among beginner dancers. This is a jewel in the navel. Old Hollywood movies that feature harems or belly dancing often portray dancers with jewels in their navels.

Traditionally belly dancers in the Middle East do not wear this form of belly dancing jewelry. It is completely a Western invention. It's best to avoid this form of supposed belly dancing jewelry if you are serious about being authentic.