Miao Silver Festival Ornament

Three silver crescents nest inside one another, each ending in a tight spiral at the tip.

This festival ornament is Miao (Hmong), from China, and dates to the 19th century. It is silver. Silver jewelry is central to Miao festival dress, and heavy layered neck rings like this are generally worn on special occasions as a display of family wealth. The three broad bands are graduated in size and bound together with fine wire. Coiled spirals rise from each end, and a hook and coiled clasp close the top. The silver is polished to a soft, slightly worn glow. It is 4 inches wide and 13 high.

Festive and practical, if one's idea of practical runs to silver.