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Vintage Tribal Kalash Spiral Torc Necklace
 Old Afghan Tribal Jewelry Torc       Back View old Torc Beautiful Old Afghan Tribal Jewelry Shown with Ruler |
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Item Number: ab-2000-T
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Old Kalash Tribal Jewelry Torc Necklace - Collectible
This large vintage Afghan torc (torque) choker necklace was handcrafted
during the early to mid-1900's in the Kalash Valley of the Hindu Kush mountain
range at the base of the Himalayas in Central Asia.
It is an old tribal jewelry neck-ring - not a new
reproduction.
MEASUREMENTS: (1 inch = 2.54 cm)
Back Neck-Opening = 2-3/8 inches
Material = Mixed metals with silver; Glass beads
Neckline circumference = 16 inches
Weight = 11.8 oz
Shipping weight = 1 pound plus 1 oz.
The torc neck-ring is a
distinctive style of choker necklace that has been worn throughout Central Asia
and the Indian subcontinent for centuries.
This style of torc is
characteristic of those worn in the Chitral region of the Kalash Valley for
centuries.
Its overall construction is
that of a coil of sturdy thick wire that was twisted to make a springy graduated
neck-ring.
To wear a torc (torque)
necklace like this one, gently pull the ends in opposite directions (one end
up, one end down) to make the back opening just large enough to slip your neck
through.
Then release it, returning the
necklace to its original shape. Remove it the same way.
This torc is classically Kalash, with vibrantly-ornate red beads accenting the sides.
In
excellent condition, it has mild wear patterns and a warm age-patina remaining
after so many years.
With a 16-inch neckline
circumference, this torc fits an average-sized adult female.
A similar torc neck-ring is
pictured on page 498 of Seiwert's book "Treasures from the Bir
Collection." |
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