This is an antique handcrafted silver metal beaded necklace from Yemen. It features a large cylinder shaped prayer box pendant or hirz amulet. This ethnic silver prayer pendant specimen is in great condition with some denting and has lovely chain work suspending dangles which make a great jingle sound when they bump together. This antique, Yemen silver amulet measures 3 inches wide by 2 inches long including the dangles. The handcrafted beads have traditional granulation and rope decorations. They are strung on a simple cotton thread that is sturdy, but has probably been replaced at some point. In Yemen for centuries most of the tribally worn silver jewelry was made by Jewish metalsmiths living in the country. These very talented silversmiths used a combination of geometric shapes, filigree work and granulation techniques to create a wide variety of amulets, bracelets, necklaces, chokers and rings. Very often they recycled silver coins and silver jewelry by melting them down to acquire the silver they worked with, so the silver content is unknown. The beads and prayer box have a dark untouched patina from years of wear. They have some damage, dents ad splits which are consistent for its age. This necklace is an exceptional example from the estate of a Jewelry/Bead collector from Santa Fe.

• Length: 21 inches (adjustable)

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