Traditional Tuareg necklace in solid sterling silver 925, entirely hand-engraved by the Inaden, the Tuareg nomadic blacksmiths. This antique plastron necklace comes from Djanet, Algeria, a region famous for its ethnic Tuareg jewelry.
The necklace features a beaded silver chain, a traditional hook clasp, and 15 hammered silver plaques of decreasing size, finely articulated and engraved with geometric tribal motifs, characteristic of Tuareg culture.
Its design is inspired by the "camel’s teeth" pattern, with elongated silver plaques carved into points and arranged in a curved shape, symbolizing the camel’s smile.
Offered in Djanet by Tuareg artisans, this piece showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of the Inaden, the guardians of Saharan metallurgical traditions. Its natural patina and slight signs of wear confirm its authenticity and age.

Note : The necklace was recently cleaned with vinegar, which partially removed its original patina and gave the metal a shinier appearance. While this cleaning has enhanced its brilliance, it has also slightly altered its antique look (see photos).

Materials & Craftsmanship
* Main metal: Solid sterling silver
* Craftsmanship: 100% handmade by the Inaden (Tuareg master artisans)
* Ornamentation: Geometric and symbolic engravings
* Clasp: Traditional silver hook
* Chain: Beaded silver chain, flexible and durable
* Beads: Silver beads along the chain

Dimensions & Weight
* Total length: 24 cm
* Bead width: 2 mm
* Largest plaque size: 5 cm x 1.5 cm
* Smallest plaque size: 2 cm x 1 cm
* Estimated weight: 19-20 g

Design & Style
* Shape: Articulated plastron with hanging silver plaques
* Design: Inspired by the "camel’s teeth" pattern, with pointed silver plaques arranged in an arc
* Motifs: Traditional geometric and symbolic Tuareg engravings
* Finish: Beautiful natural patina preserved (slightly polished due to vinegar cleaning)

Era & Origin
* Origin: Djanet, Algeria
* Era: End 20th century (1970s-1980s)
* Handmade by: Inaden Tuareg blacksmiths

Authenticity & History
Algeria, a historical crossroads between the Mediterranean and the Sahara, is a meeting point for diverse populations:
* Berbers (Tuareg, Chaoui, Kabyle, Mozabite, Zenete)
* Arab tribes
* Sub-Saharan communities
The Hoggar, Ajjer, and Adrar regions of the Algerian Sahara are home to the Tuareg, where silver craftsmanship has been preserved by the Inaden. These itinerant blacksmiths travell across Niger, Libya, Mali, and Algeria, enriching local craftsmanship.
In Djanet, Inaden artisans from Libya, Niger, and northern Mali contribute to a cross-border stylistic exchange. The caravan routes crossing Algeria facilitate cultural and commercial exchanges between the Maghreb and sub-Saharan regions (Mali, Niger, Chad).
These exchanges allow Saharan craftsmanship to absorb North African, Middle Eastern, and European influences, while maintaining a strong Berber identity.

Condition : Very good overall condition for its age, with natural signs of wear
* Polished metal, while retaining an authentic look
* Solid and intact structure, no deformations
* Well-preserved, sharp engravings
* Natural patina maintained, slightly altered by recent cleaning
* Some minor oxidation marks, typical for its age

**Important Notes:**
PACKAGING - To be kind to the environment, recycled packaging material is used whenever possible.

INTERNATIONAL DELIVERIES up to 2 kg packaged weight will be shipped via La Poste economy parcel service, tracked but not insured. I am not responsible for loss of packages once shipped.

IMPORT TAX & CUSTOM DUTY - May be charged at some custom borders. Buyers are responsible for paying any taxes or excise duties charged. They are not included in the item price. Check with your Revenues & Customs website on their rules on imports from France.

UK DELIVERIES – For orders valued equal to or less than £135, UK VAT is added on behalf of the UK government. For orders with a total value over £135, Import VAT & Customs Duty may be charged at the UK customs border. Buyers are responsible for paying any charges occurring. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/notice-143-a-guide-for-international-post-users

VINTAGE CONDITION means items that, by nature, are likely to have various marks and show indications of their age and previous use. Please read the description and review the photographs closely using the zoom feature. If you have any questions, please contact me before purchasing.