This vintage Mid-Century Sephardic / Mizrahi Jewish triangular protective amulet (kamea) pendant originates from the silversmithing traditions of the Jewish communities of Yemen and the broader Middle East / North Africa (MENA) region. Handcrafted from a low-grade silver coin alloy (billon / mixed metal), the triangular silhouette is a traditional form used throughout Middle Eastern Jewish folk traditions to ward off the evil eye (Ayin Hara) and grant protection.

The front face features handmade wirework borders, rope-twist edging, and granule bezels encasing vibrant glass cabochons and beads in red, green, and deep blue. A central raised bezel holds a faceted dark red glass cabochon. The bottom rim supports four double-link suspension chains terminating in six spherical chiming bells/dangles (zangula), designed to make audible sound when worn to dispel negative spirits. The backplate consists of an unadorned, hand-hammered flat sheet showing authentic age, oxidation, and subtle verdigris at join points.

• Origin: Middle East / Yemenite Jewish or North African Sephardic silversmithing tradition.

• Age: Mid-20th Century (c. 1950s–1970s).

• Material: Low-grade silver alloy / coin metal, glass cabochons, glass beads.

• Dimensions: Approx. 4.0" L x 1.5" W (including bail and dangles).

• Weight: Approx. 20 grams.

• Condition: Excellent vintage condition with an unpolished aged patina, light surface oxidation, and light verdigris near wire joins. All stone settings, chains, and bells remain completely intact.

Authenticity Assessment

This piece demonstrates authentic signs of mid-20th-century Sephardic / Mizrahi tribal jewelry production, constructed using traditional bench techniques rather than modern casting. Key markers include hand-soldered links on the suspension chains, irregular hand-bent wire-twist borders, and individually bezel-set glass cabochons. The underside and solder points exhibit a natural dark silver-grey patina alongside traces of copper verdigris oxidation, typical of low-purity "billon" or coin silver used by Jewish silversmiths in Yemen and North Africa. The central red glass cabochon displays micro-abrasions and internal striations consistent with age and wear.

Reference

• Book Title: The Jews of Yemen: Highlights of the Israel Museum Collection

• Author: Ester Muchawsky-Schnapper

• Page Reference: Chapter on Jewelry and Amulets (pp. 64–72)

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