Vintage Silver Amazigh Necklace from Algeria

A lovely Algerian Amazigh necklace. It is from the 19th century. There are more elaborate herz necklace relatives shown in the Quai Branly Museum's collection. This type of Kabyle necklace is usually decorated with enamel and made with coral beading or scented beads. This herz necklace however is made of silver and decorated with small corals. The chain has 10 spherical silver beads, altogether a much simpler yet elegant affair. The square pendant is decorated with roping and granulation on the main side and with scrollwork on the back. The dangles end with small coral cabochons. The pendant acts as a talisman to protect from evil. The necklace is in good vintage condition.

• Length is 61 cm or 24". 
• The pendant is 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm (1 x 1").
• Weight is 42.2 g.

 For more Amazigh jewelry, please visit the Amazigh Collection.