Women in the nomadic communities of what is today Turkmenistan, often wore heavy, conspicuous jewelry.
Worn as part of the bridal dowry, the red carnelian (sometimes glass) was believed to protect the wearer against miscarriage and disease. Red was associated with happiness & fertility.
The bracelets, open on one side are edged with serrated, triangular elements known as ‘snake heads’ meant to symbolize life and give the wearer further talismanic protection.
The fire gilding is characteristic of Tekke jewelry. The process involved the application of a mixture of mercury and gold to the surface of the silver. Heating caused the mercury to evaporate leaving a gold layer fixed to the surface.
Dimensions: 3 3/8" height x 2 ¼"" depth - the opening in the back is 1 ⅛".
It weighs 7.57 ounces, or 214.5 grams.