Tuareg Sahara Ring with Carnelian Stone US 7, Mali

Description

This type of ring is worn by Tuareg men who ride in the salt caravans by camel across the Sahara, travelling as far as Taoudenni. It is set with a beautiful hand-cut and polished carnelian stone set in silver.
The dome-shaped carnelian represents the sand dune, each of the four prongs, represents the four cardinal points.
The women who remain behind also wear this type of ring, as a reminder of the challenging voyage that their men are making.
Rich patina, mid 20th century – Collected in Mali.

Inner Diameter: 17,7 mm
Weight: 11,38 grams
Ring size: 7 1/2

* Carnelian is appreciated as a powerful amulet and also believed to avert illness