HMONG TRIBE, CIRCA 1900

These neck rings are worn by both men and women of the Hmong tribe (also called Meo) who, although originally from areas around the Yellow River in China are also found in the mountainous areas of North Thailand, Burma and Laos which is known as the Golden Triangle. Silver is traditionally highly prized among all the tribes of these areas and is thought to protect against illness and misfortune. The belief that illness is a sign that the soul wishes to leave the body is particularly prevalent and silver is said to ensure that the soul stays within the body; the more silver worn denoting wealth and family prestige. The interesting character rings to each ring can represent the town of origin, or in some cases the name of the owner. For similar examples see Ethnic Jewellery from Africa, Asia and Pacific Islands - The René van der Star Collection, 2008, p. 184, 191, 206 and 209.