The Tuareg have been working in silver since before Umayyads and Abbasids argued over the region. Long before Tin Buktu had a well that started a university in Mali (Timbuktu), there was Tin Hinan, the founding queen of the Kel Tamasheq. They’d been trading silver across the Sahara for about 2000 years before, but as different tribes without a formal confederacy. As far back as the old Egyptian dynasties and the Garamantes, groups that became the Tamasheq traded amazonite with those empires. They’ve been working with metals and stones for that long.

This ring is just an example of the long tradition of Tuareg metalwork. Since the times of Tin Hinan the Tuareg, as a group, have been making silver jewelry in this manner. They’re known the world over for their crosses, rings, earrings, and other types of adornments. I don’t even carry some of the items they make. So be sure to check out other items from other sellers. You may get this particular ring, but If nothing else you should come away with an appreciation for their artistry. That’s how I got into it. Somewhere between a history elective in college and festivals, I came to appreciate the work. I’m simply a conduit.

Anyway, if you love the ring you should add it to your cart. If you don’t, go check out other Tuareg work. Add a few Tuareg items to your silver collection. You won’t regret it. It’s stunning work.