Silver Beaded Necklace, Yemen

Silver beads as heavy-looking as plums, strung for display.

Silversmiths in Yemen made this beaded necklace in coin silver in the 19th century. Silver jewelry in Yemen is commonly worn by women as adornment and as a store of family wealth, often in generous strands. Five large round beads with engraved lines are separated by smaller ball and ribbed spacers. The strand ends in tapered cones joined to fine chains with hook clasps. The metal has a soft, pale, slightly worn gray finish.

About 21 inches long. Dresses a neckline, or a display form, with equal ease.