Nepalese or Tibetan Repoussé Silver Charm on Tribal Cord
Jewelry (Charm/Amulet) · Unbranded/Artisanal Silversmith; likely a regional craftsman from the Himalayan region (Nepal or Tibet) practicing traditional metalwork.
Pattern: Traditional Himalayan Buddhist/Shamanic motifs; unique handcrafted piece not part of a commercial collection.
Type
Jewelry (Charm/Amulet)
Maker
Unbranded/Artisanal Silversmith; likely a regional craftsman from the Himalayan region (Nepal or Tibet) practicing traditional metalwork.
Material
Low-grade to high-grade Silver Alloy (often referred to as Tribal Silver); may contain copper or brass base; accompanied by organic cord, cord-wrapped beads, and what appears to be a coral or cinnabar element.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of silver disc: 2.0-2.5 cm; estimated total weight of charm: 8-12 grams; cord thickness approximately 4-6 mm.
Description
An evocative piece of Himalayan tribal jewelry featuring a circular silver disc with relief carvings reminiscent of ancient protective amulets. The silver shows a deep, natural oxidation that highlights the hand-worked design. It is strung on a rustic, multi-colored braided cord alongside a large red organic bead, possibly coral or a dyed resin equivalent, and a clear crystal-like spacer, embodying the 'Bohemian' or 'Silk Road' aesthetic popular in international ethnographic markets.
Key Features
Heavy hand-tooling; deep oxidation in recessed areas; irregular 'wabi-sabi' roundness; association with organic materials like cord and natural stones.
Material & Composition
Low-grade to high-grade Silver Alloy (often referred to as Tribal Silver); may contain copper or brass base; accompanied by organic cord, cord-wrapped beads, and what appears to be a coral or cinnabar element.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized antique finish with hand-chased and repoussé relief work; features a central oval cabochon-like rise and scrolled abstract or zoomorphic elements; high relief with significant surface patina.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible; common for authentic tribal and ethnographic silver from this region to be unmarked or stamped with '925' only if intended for modern export.
Construction Details
Hand-hammered and die-struck or repoussé from a silver sheet; hole for suspension is likely hand-punched or drilled; edges are irregular and hand-finished.
Functional Features
Single suspension hole for integration into a multi-strand cord or 'Mala' style necklace; integrated with textile and bead components.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; jewelry item.
Craftsmanship Details
Evidences clear hand-craftsmanship; use of chasing tools to create texture; the lack of symmetry proves individual hand-manufacture rather than modern machine casting.
Authentication Indicators
Irregularity of the repoussé work; thickness of the silver sheet; presence of hand-tooling marks; authentic greenish-black oxidation consistent with silver-copper alloys.
Origin & Manufacturing
Himalayan region (likely Kathmandu, Nepal or Lhasa, Tibet); manufactured using traditional hand-tooling methods in a small workshop environment.
Era & Period
Modern Ethnographic / Traditional Contemporary; late 20th century to early 21st century following ancient stylistic indicators.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-present; the wear suggests use, but the construction style has remained consistent for centuries.
Cultural Significance
Represents the fusion of metalwork and textile arts in Central Asian nomadic and mountain cultures; reflects the trade history of the Himalayan region where silver was a primary form of wearable wealth.
Condition Notes
Good / Very Good; authentic surface wear with light scratches and considerable tarnish (desirable in this style); some fraying visible on the green cord attachment; no structural cracks in the metal.
Value Estimate
$40 - $125 USD; value is driven by the aesthetic appeal and 'Boho' jewelry market rather than high silver weight or brand name prestige.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid chemical 'dips' which will strip the beautiful dark patina; lightly buff raised high-points with a silver cloth to maintain contrast; keep dry to prevent rot in the organic cordage.
Similar Pieces
Afghan Kuchi silver pendants (usually flatter with more glass inlay); Tibetan 'Bha' amulets (usually box-like); Indian 'Thewa' work (gold on silver, much finer detail).
Interesting Facts
In Himalayan culture, such silver discs are often worn as 'Gau' amulets or protective charms to ward off negative energy; the red color of the accompanying bead represents life force and protection.