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.

Saudi Hair Jewels

Posted by Lynn Ardent on February 15, 2015 at 3:10pm

Unusually large Saudi Arabian hair jewels, with beautifully matrixed turquoise. Set in gilt brass with loops for threading into the hair. These are about double the size of the other set that I have. With gratitude to Eileen Massard, who is selling her collection. She collected these in the early 70's in the Riyadh women's souk. More photos in the comments.Dimensions:4x4cm to 4.5x5cm15 to 25 grams

Comments

Lynn Ardent February 15, 2015 at 3:19pm

Back:
Lynn Ardent February 15, 2015 at 3:20pm

From the side:
Peter Hoesli February 15, 2015 at 4:50pm

WOW Lynn, they should be huge. It must have looked great in their hair - but then who would see it... With kind regards. Peter
Betty February 15, 2015 at 7:51pm

Fabulous pieces Lynn - Congratulations! Beautiful colours...
Lynn Ardent February 16, 2015 at 12:55am

Thank you Peter and Betty. I have a serious weakness for Saudi turquoise and I try to buy it whenever I see it, as pieces like this are rare. I wear different configurations of these plus my other set on silver chains.
Joost Daalder February 17, 2015 at 1:05pm

Lovely pieces - and I share your love of Saudi turquoise, by the way. When you get the book (and that will be soon), have a good look at the pieces on pp. 383 and 384, which I am very sure you'll greatly like. And keep up your excellent collecting - and your posting for all of us admirers!
Lynn Ardent February 19, 2015 at 3:03am

Thank you Joost! I really do love them. I look forward to seeing the Saudi turquoise in the book.
martin george April 8, 2015 at 6:55pm

Hello, Just found this site. Thought you would like to see some hair pieces I have had for 25 years bought in Saudi in Hofuf, Between Riyad and the east coast. I always thought they were called "illacs" but I may be wrong. The one on the right appears to be silver, the others brass. The stones are about 2cm x 1cm.
Lynn Ardent April 8, 2015 at 7:03pm

They are wonderful Martin, thank you for sharing them. The turquoise is gorgeous and the silver one is particularly refined. You are lucky to have them!
Lynn Ardent April 8, 2015 at 7:50pm

Martin would it be OK if I added your photos to a pinterest board on Saudi turquoise jewelry?