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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Very great. High quality I usually see these bracelets in very low silver or metal. Where did you get this?
It`s base is an alloy, Patti, just like the great majority of them. In fact, I`ve never seen a silver one. They may all be of alloy. But, as you say, the quality is undeniable. So is the workmanship across the top.
I have a Bulgarian contact who lives in Sofia and has collected for many years.
Hi Frankie, Are these bracelets typical for Bulgaria or can the be found all over the old ottoman area? I have seen a similar one recently, but what seems to be a bronze cast of good quality and without enamel.
Hi Cecilia.
This type of bracelet is certainly found all over Bulgaria. These days they are used as dance bracelets so some have small stones inside to rattle. I know they can be found in Macedonia and I believe Serbia. I have never heard of one coming from Turkey itself but that doesn`t mean they don`t.
It is true that they are associated with the Ottoman empire since many were made under the time of Ottoman sway. However my own feeling (and I am not alone in this) is that they are of archaic design and hail from my earlier times as a more indigenous design of the area before ever the later boundaries were imposed.
They come in variations of low grade silver, metal alloy and bronze with or without enamel and/or mercury gilding. However, I am no authority and there may be more that I haven`t stated.
Hope this is helpful.
Many thanks Frankie. I've learned a lot today. Might just be the 'archaic' flair that appealed to me.
You are welcome, Cecilia. The archaic flair appeals to me, too!