morocco
Morocco has a wide variety in jewelry styles and items. Apart from regional styles, even very local styles can be distinguished. The abundance in materials and colours makes Moroccan jewelry a pleasure to behold. As with all other pages, this pages will regularly be updated and extended with more information. If you would like to read more on Moroccan jewelry, here are some references.
Detail of a silver Haha-fibula. Their shape is derived from a rams' head with horns and serves as a protective element
The HaHa-region is in the south of Morocco in the western High Atlas, and stretches roughly from Essaouira to the Sousse Valley. In the Berber language, the tribe is called Ihahan. The fibulas in the shape of rams heads are among the most characteristic jewelry items of the region. This example has been cast, after which the decoration is refined using engraving and polishing.
Small headdress decoration or taounza. The three hooks are used to fasten the headdress over the headveil. The coins fall on the forehead. Silver and enamel
Pair of silver temple pendants, decorated with niello, enamel and coral
Pair of silver fibulas from the Tiznit area, decorated with enamel
Temple pendant in the shape of a marabout-tomb, with coral beads and coins
Perfume holder, worn in the hair or on the headdress. The container was filled with sheep's wool.
Tata hair ornament in silver with glass beads
Pair of earrings in silver with coral beads and blue glass
Detail of a cluster of silver ornaments on a necklace from the Sousse area
Necklaces such as the Sousse example below often show an abundance of materials. As they were restrung regularly, they became very individual pieces. Bits and pieces of silver and beads in precious stones were collected when there would be money to spare, and these were added to the colourful display of the necklace. The use of coins in these and other jewelry items provides interesting information on cultural and trade contacts.
Detail of a necklace with amber and coral beads, interspersed with silver amulets