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.

Iraqi? Turquoise and Silver bead

Posted by Lynn Ardent on May 29, 2015 at 12:29am

This is a large turquoise and silver bead which features 8 cross-within-circle shapes and four inset turquoises. Originally looking at the motifs and turquoise I thought it might be from Tibet, but I found a reference (see in comments) that may indicate this bead is from Iraq. It came on a Levant/Ottoman style silver chain with a simple hook. More views in the comments.

Comments

Lynn Ardent May 29, 2015 at 12:33am

More views of the bead
Lynn Ardent May 29, 2015 at 12:34am

This is the reference from quaibranly.fr, listed as an Iraqi amulet.
SARAH CORBETT May 29, 2015 at 8:51am

Beautiful, and yes, looks middle Eastern to me x
Chantal May 29, 2015 at 10:02am

Superb. How big? What a find (and good research).
Lynn Ardent May 29, 2015 at 4:44pm

Thank you Sarah and Chantal! The bead is about 30mmx30mm and the chain is 15" long.
Betty May 29, 2015 at 11:14pm

This is a fabulous find, Lynn, and so well worn. Congrats!

First time a see a piece like this. Even more attractive than its brother in the museum...
Lynn Ardent May 30, 2015 at 1:06am

Thank you very much Betty! This was a first time for me as well.
Frankie Carter May 30, 2015 at 7:54pm

Hooray, Lynn! From your posting I have now positively identified three beads in an amber necklace I`ve just acquired - never thought to check with quaibranly. Aren`t they nice? All new to me. Will show the necklace shortly.

I was like you, I had thought the beads might be from the Tibet/Nepal/India part of the world.
Lynn Ardent May 30, 2015 at 8:01pm

Yay Frankie! I think I know the necklace you are talking about and I am excited to see it! Congratulation!!!
Frankie Carter May 30, 2015 at 8:21pm

Hmm, I'm having problems loading photos from my tablet. Can anyone offer any advice?