I'm fascinated by the East and its decorative arts. During my studies, I've even begun a thesis on the decorations of Fatimid egyptian mosques. But that it is another story that I shall tell you maybe a day...
Among all the marvellous things of the East, I appreciate the Afghan jewels a lot: Chokers. On the picture, you have one of the most beautiful pieces of my personal collection.
In some words, Chokers are craft jewels realized by certain nomad tribes of Afghanistan. They are created by the families of the brides who wear during ceremonies their most beautiful splendors.
The tribes of Afghanistan are not very rich, but the Afghans overflow imagination and resources when it is a question of highlighting the future brides.
Chokers consists of a piece of tissue (for the protection of the neck) which is mostly covered with a metal meshing on which are hung on authentic precious objects or recovery ones. We find coins, pearls of glass but also some semiprecious stones as lapis lazuli, amethysts, apatites, tourmalines, aquamarines, topazes...
Each Choker is unique, it is its charm. What is a little less charming, is the weight of certain pieces which can make 1 to 3 kilo!
I take advantage of this note to recommand you an excellent site about tribal art and oriental jewels: Tribalmax.
I'd like to receive any information regarding chokers. I would be also delighted to share this passion with you. Thank you in advance for your comments.
We love Afghan Jewelry too. They are created by the Kuchi tribe in Afghanistan using items which are easily available. Most of the metal used are melted old coins. We collect old damaged pieces and reinvent them in to more wearable pieces. You can find some picture here: www.ragmatazz.com :)
Posted by: Rohini Nagu | July 12, 2011 at 10:45 PM