Omani Hair Ornament, Silver with Gold Leaf Pendant

This pretty ornament, called Halka or Halaqa, is used to decorate plaits for young women. It is made of high-grade silver with applied gold sheeting for decoration. There are also hand-incised geometric decorations. The ornament ends with 7 double chained and stylized hand-of-Fatima dangles. This type of ornament was worn by Omani girls especially in the Interior, on their braids at the back. The dangles make a noise to let passersby know of her presence. The clip at the back has been replaced at some point by two silver hoops.

Diameter is 6.5 cm (2 1/2"). Weight is 60 g.

For more Bedouin jewelry visit the Bedouin Jewelry Section.