Vintage Bedouin Choker Necklace with Five Disks

 This is a mid-century cherda choker necklace, collected in Saudi Arabia and worn in Saudi and Yemen. This necklace was probably made in Saada, northern Yemen.

The necklace is made of mixed metals which may have some silver, but silver does not constitute the significant element. The choker is made of 6 strands of metal beads. Each bead is actually a flat ring-shaped metal. The beads are threaded through metal spacers decorated with granulation and applique diamonds. Five cylindrical disks hang from the last strand. Each disk is decorated with granulation and has a red glass cabochon at its center. From the bottom of each disk, there are five sets of dangles. 

The strands are all threaded on a plaited cotton cord that passes through the triangular finials, decorated with granulation. The necklace closes by tying the ends of the cord.

The necklace is in good condition with a couple of dangles missing and a repair at the back to one of the disks. A similar necklace is present in the Quai Branly Museum.

Dimensions:

• The length of the cord is 52 cm or 20 1/2".
• The drop is 9.5 cm or 3 3/4".
• Weight 165 g.

 For more Bedouin jewelry, please visit the Bedouin Collection.