Chunky Antique Turkoman Tekke Cuff with Carnelian Cabochons.
A striking and weighty solid sterling silver open cuff bangle, crafted by the nomadic Tekke tribe of Turkmenistan circa 1920s. This imposing piece embodies the opulence and symbolism of traditional ethnic Afghan/Turkoman adornment.
The broad front of the cuff is richly decorated with three oval, tube-set carnelian cabochons—stones long revered in Central Asia for their protective and energizing properties. Around them, intricate silver filigree spirals form symmetrical motifs, highlighted with traces of “fire gilded” gold accents on both the front and side panels. The edges are finished with bold pierced crown-like terminals, giving the bangle a commanding presence.
Women of nomadic Turkoman communities traditionally adorned themselves with heavy, highly visible jewelry, both as ornament and as a symbol of status and protection. Such cuffs were integral to a bride’s dowry and worn during festive occasions, though affluent women often wore them daily. Over a lifetime, pieces were added to reflect growing prosperity and family honor.
The distinctive fire gilding, a hallmark of Tekke silverwork, involved coating the surface with an amalgam of gold and mercury. When heated, the mercury evaporated, leaving behind a lustrous layer of gold. Though dangerous for the artisans, this technique created the rich, glowing contrasts admired in these jewels.
Authentic Turkoman cuffs of this age and weight are increasingly scarce. Today, similar Tekke examples command between $275 (R4,700) and $400 (R6,900) online, depending on condition, size, and gemstone quality. This particular cuff, with its intact carnelian cabochons and bold gilded filigree, is a superb example of tribal adornment that bridges the worlds of jewelry, history, and ethnographic art.
*This marvelous cuff is priced at just slightly above its silver value of approx R3000 — an absolute steal!
Measurements : ( small wrist size ) The cuff with an inner circumference of 17 cm , diameter ( left to right ) of 5.8cm.Each of the carnelian cabochons measure 1.6cm x 1.1cm.The cuff with a whopping weight of 132grams.
