Vintage Saudi Bedouin Silver Bib Necklace

A beautiful Saudi Bedouin bib necklace from the early decades of the twentieth century. This type of necklace, locally known as kirdala, is becoming rare to find. The necklace is entirely handmade from a mix of metals including low-grade silver. It is composed of a band decorated with wiring and coarse granulation. The choker band also has bezels for red and blue stones, though most of these stones are now missing. The band has a metal hook closure at the back for easier wear. From the choker hang lots of bicone beads and ball dangles that make a lovely sound with movement. But for the missing beads, the necklace is in good vintage condition.

A similar but simpler necklace can be seen in Heather Colyer Ross's book The Art of Bedouin Jewellery.

Dimensions:

• The circumference is 37.5 (14 3/4").
• Depth 14 cm (5 1/2") to bottom of dangles.
• The weight of the necklace is 280 g. 

For more Bedouin jewelry visit the Bedouin Jewelry Section.