Kuchi Turkmen Vintage Pendant, Beaded Chain, Afghanistan (3032A)

Description

Tribal jewelry is especially significant in Afghan culture, reflecting the identity, unique style, motifs and symbolism of its many ethnic groups. Jewelry made by the Kuchi tribe, also known as the Pashtun people, has a 3000-year history. ‘Kuchi’ is an Afghan Persian Farsi term meaning ‘those who go on migrations’. It is the generic term used by Afghans and foreigners since the 1980s for the wide range of nomads of Afghanistan from the mountainous regions of southern and eastern Afghanistan, Iran, and more recently Pakistan. Worn by the nomadic Afghani Turkmen people as dress adornment its distinctive features include oversized ornaments with inset red, green and blue cut glass, lapis and intricate metalwork interspersed with coins, bells, and other dangling pieces. The jewelry is created to stimulate the senses with vibrant infusions of color and clanging objects reflecting a fusion of cultures. Authentic vintage Kuchi jewelry is an alloy of copper, zinc and nickel with small amount of silver from silver coins. Prized by vintage jewelry aficionados, authentic pieces have become scarcer and more difficult to find. Due to its popularity and high demand, Kuchi tradition continues today with modern creations that are mass produced using cheaper materials.