Balochistan is a province of diversified cultures. The word ‘Balochistan’ embosses an impression: “The land of Baloch” — it’s true but there are so many other cultures and tribes too that live in Balochistan; and their presence has given Balochistan’s culture, diversification and versatility. Balochistan is very famous for traditional handicrafts such as shawls, Balochi-style shoes, decorated caps, household items and weapons. Besides Balochi items, some handmade objects from other non-Baloch tribes, Pashtuns and Hazaras — who have been living in Balochistan for centuries — can also be found. These artefacts play an important role in the lives of local people as they earn their livelihood by selling the products like embroidered shawls which are first prepared by the female members of the family at home and then sold in the market by the male members.
There is a huge list of Balochi handicrafts but the most famous are discussed below: 
Caps
People of Balochistan are used to wear different styles of caps. These caps do not only represent their respective tribes but also show their social status. Rich people wear matching caps according to the colour of their dresses. The caps also contain beautiful embroidery along with small pieces of mirror engraved on them. These caps are available in the market from PKR 300 to PKR 10000 depending upon their quality.
Shoes
Handmade shoes are very popular among Balochi men and there are several styles that represent different cultures. Most famous are ‘Marri’, ‘Norozi’ and ‘Peshawari’. There is a big market in Quetta for these locally made shoes. Usually people buy readymade shoes but they can also place order to get customised shoes. It takes a day or two to get your order. Soles of the shoes are made of strong rubber tyre and other parts with pure leather. The shoes are durable and ideal for walking on the tough terrains and mountains in Balochistan.
Shawls One of the most famous handmade items among women not only in Pakistan but also around the world is Balochi shawl. This accessory carries a lot of importance in Balochistan as Balochi people consider it as a symbol of honour and when a shawl is presented to a woman, it means she is ‘honoured’.
Just like shoes and caps, shawls’ designs also vary from tribe to tribe. Mostly these shawls are embroidered by women who work at home but due to rise in demand at the international level, shawls are also prepared in factories too. The best available shawls in Quetta worth PKR 2000. 
Carpets Hand knitted carpets are also a part of Balochistani culture. Like other items, different designs of carpets represent different regions. Pashtun area has its own significance which is represented by Afghan-style knitting, whereas Baloch areas near Iran border reflect Iranian style in their rugs.
Jeweller Balochi people started to manufacture and use jewellery since 7000 BC which shows that Balochi people were rich and cultured since beginning. Even today, traditional-style handmade silver and copper jewellery can be found in Balochistan, which is made by ‘Zarger’ — local name for jewellers.
Home décor item Besides accessories and outfits, home decor items such as pottery is also one of the major parts of Balochistan’s tradition. These pots and decoration pieces are usually made of marble, limestone and other precious gemstones.
So next time you visit Balochistan, don’t forget to visit handicrafts’ shops and purchase some beautiful artefacts to get the feel of Balochi culture.
