Description

This old pair of Tsabit or Tizabaten silver hoops is traditionally worn by young Tuareg girls.
By the time she reaches adulthood, she will have enlarged her ear holes and will be able to wear the larger and heavier tsabit. 
Jewelry makes up a Tuareg woman’s movable wealth as it is easily transported from place to place. 
This pair is mismatched but the differences are only slight and I acquired them as such. 
The young Tuareg girl may have lost one and had another made… 
Nice patina, mid 20th century – Collected in Mali.

The elkiss knobs measure 10 x 10 mm
Gauge of the ear posts is of 3,5 mm
Inner diameter of hoops: 3,5 cm (1 1/2″)
Weight: 28,6 grams (1.01 oz)