The Ishmaelites originated from Ishmael, paternal half-brother of Isaac. They became traders & bedouins – Arabian merchants. They are closely associated with, and related to, the Midianites, and the two names are often used interchangeably in the Bible.
They are known for the wearing of golden earrings (the women wore golden nose rings).
Judges 8:24
Also see:
- Genesis 37:25 & Genesis 37:36
- Genesis 24:7
- Ezekiel 16:12