Silver necklace with old turquoise and coral beads

Silver necklace with a large old square turquoise framed by two small old coral beads. The necklace is fastened with a silver hook clasp, measures 44 cm in circumference and weighs 12.9 g. Handmade in the Atelier Tibet in Zurich.

In Tibetan jewelry, turquoise is traditionally used as a symbol of protection, prosperity and health and is an important component of many spiritual and cultural amulets and pieces of jewelry.

Coral has a deep spiritual and cultural significance in traditional Tibetan jewelry. The red precious coral (Corallium rubrum) is particularly prized. In combination with turquoise and silver, coral beads are a characteristic element of Tibetan prayer beads(malas), amulets and ritual jewelry. As Tibet is a landlocked highland, coral was imported from the Mediterranean and the Southeast Asian region via centuries-old trade routes. Nowadays, precious coral is strictly protected, which is why modern Tibetan jewelry is made with old, recycled coral or sustainable alternatives.