ACraftIndependent states
Kazakh jewellery
Bracelets, earrings and hair ornaments of silver, gold, coral and turquoise — Kazakh jewellers (zerger) crafted symbols of protection and beauty.
Kazakh jewellery mostly uses silver, set with turquoise, coral and carnelian and touched with gilding. Ram's horn, bird, plant and sun motifs dominate the ornament.
Every piece had meaning: bracelets and rings protected a woman, the sholpy hung from the plaits jingled to drive away evil spirits, and the alqa necklace was worn for a bride's fertility. Girls' jewellery also signalled their age and marital status.
Today Kazakh jewellers combine traditional forms with modern design, and old pieces are kept in museums in Almaty and Astana.
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Updated: October 2, 2026