How to identify a good Yemeni necklace

[Preethi]

Hello all,

I'll probably get into trouble here for using the word "good" here, as what is good is often very subjective :)

I am looking for a Yemeni kirdan to add to my collection. There are many online but would like to find a really fine piece that I can keep for years. What should I look for? Does anyone have photos of kirdan necklaces of fine workmanship? Are these usually heavy and are they made of pure silver at all or typically an alloy?

Your help is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[Anna Garner]

Patricia,

Does this kind of jewelry belong in this category?  Would you call it the *bib* type of what is called a kirdan?  Or is a kirdan more properly the necklace?  I have seen descriptions with the word kirdan, but was never sure exactly how to apply it.  Here is the link to the photo here in my album.  It will remain in my collection for yet a while.  

http://ethnicjewels.ning.com/photo/yemmultipccollarft?context=user

[Anna Garner]

@Patricia,

OOOOPs!  I see you have already answered my question.  So  *Lappa* it is.  

Anna

[Patricia Deany]

lapa or lappa or laba or labeh -- anyways it is spelled in different ways and it is the bib necklace which comes in all qualities , ages, and prices.

[Patricia Deany]

This is a relatively fine and tasteful laba necklace -- the work is small and the necklace is appropriate for everyday wear for modern women. I guess it is probably from the first half of the twentieth century.http://ethnicjewels.ning.com/photo/very-fine-yemeni-necklace-or-hea...

[Patricia Deany]

I know the size of the above necklace because I own it. This next one appears to be of more Bedouin origin, is probably larger and heavier. http://www.goantiques.com/scripts/images,id,2026438.html

[Anna Garner]

Thank you for all the information and links.  I am always worried that I will describe my items for sale  in a way that is misleading, while at the same time I am trying to become a good salesman ;)   

Anna

[Preethi]

Hi Patty, Veronica and Anna,  thanks for the very helpful messages. I have to admit that of the links you shared, my favourite piece is the 5-tiered necklace with coral. Veronica refers to it as a Mashtata. And now to find one like it :) Thanks again for sharing the knowledge! xox