Turkoman Tribal Silver Men's Shirt Ornament

A classic and antique piece of tribal jewellery from the Ersari region of Turkmenistan, Central Asia. Hand crafted from very high grade silver and set with two natural carnelian stones, one dark brown and the other bright orange. Carnelian is the stone of the prophet, indicating the pious nature of its wearer.

Designed to be pinned to the front of a man's shirt, a piece of ornamentation like this was intended to display the wearer's wealth and status. The pendant at the bottom of the piece actually has a very practical purpose - it is a men's grooming kit consisting of a nail cleaner, ear spoon and a pair of tweezers. The fact that this kit is so heavily ornamented and made of solid silver indicates that the owner was both wealthy and important.

Wear on the piece is appropriate to its age - early 19th century. Originally sourced by my father Bernie Heaphy on one of his earliest trips to Afghanistan and Central Asia. A museum quality piece and very collectable.

• Antique jewellery - early 19th century
• Ersari Turkoman in origin
• High grade silver (925 silver equivalent)

Measurements: 

Length 33 cm (13 in)