Gallery

A digital archive showcasing the extensive collection of jewellery and adornment images shared on the former Ethnic Jewels Ning site over the years. These images have significantly enriched discussions on cultural adornment and its global dispersion.

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Posted by HALTER on June 4, 2010 at 8:51am

This early 20th century necklace from the Draa valley/ Ouarzazate (south Morocco) is typical for its material: this type of Copal ( young amber) necklace was offered to the bride the day of her marriage and was worn then for the following festivities during her life… the beads are protected by discs from red felt…. You don't find these necklaces anymore (since late 19th century, genuine amber was already too expensive for the families and most of time the beads of amber were replaced by copal or false amber).Weight:906grLenght:39,3inches

Comments

Marie-Ange August 6, 2011 at 2:20pm

I think these beads are more likely simulated resin or plastic beads to look like amber or copal, if they were real amber or copal weight would be far less than 906 grams.
SARAH CORBETT August 6, 2011 at 2:27pm

Hi Marie Ange,

I agree, These look very much to me a resinous faux amber produced in Marrakech.

Warm wishes

Sarah
HALTER August 6, 2011 at 2:35pm

At the end of 19th and during the first part of 20th century, real amber was often too expensive and that is the reason of my cautious comments...definitively not plastic ...most probably resin or simulated resin but such pieces are old and difficult to find and this piece had been sold with all the problematic of this objet!
SARAH CORBETT August 6, 2011 at 3:12pm

Hi Micheal,

Many of the older Resins which replaced the early fossil amber are very collectable in their own right. I know of several people who collect it and the regional variations of it.

Warm wishes

Sarah
HALTER August 6, 2011 at 3:40pm

Thank you very much for this last comment which is exactly my personal opinion

Best regards
Anna Garner May 17, 2012 at 2:58pm

Many of my European friends have lovely Baltic amber necklaces from when they lived in Russia or Romania, etc. I actually prefer the more opaque colorful and handmade qualities in the 'faux' amber.