Tyical Mer vedha earrings, mainly manufactured in Junagadh and worn by Mer women. They are hollow, made of 22 ct gold sheet. For less wealthy women metal or gold plated silver could be worn. Mer Vedha are given by the parents or in-laws, but are not directly connected to marriage.
Mer women usually keep their helix free of ornaments. Urbanised women from this ethnic group are not using this kind of earrings anymore.
From the first half of the 20th century.
22 ct gold.
Provenance: European private collection
Dimensions: 5,8 cm long with hook
Weight: 16,9 g
Literature:
“A world of earrings. Africa, Asia America”, van Cutsem, Anne, Skira, 2001
“Traditional jewelry of India”, Untracht, Oppi, Harry N. Abrams. Inc publishers, 1997
“Earrings. Ornamental identity and beauty in India”, Ganguly, Waltraud, B.R. Publishing Corporation, 2007
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