Ancient silver jewellery on display in RAK

A unique collection of silver jewellery on display at the Ras Al Khaimah National Museum is expected to draw large crowds.

Christian Velede, resident archaeologist of the museum, said the jewellery is one of the main discoveries in the area. People in the Arabian Peninsula wore jewellery for fashion and protection against evil spirits. It was also an investment.

With gold being in vogue now, silver jewellery is becoming rarer. The museum is proud to possess a unique collection of traditional silver jewellery not only from the UAE and Oman, but also from Yemen and India.

He said: "Situated in the beautiful fort of old Ras Al Khaimah town, the museum houses more than 200 antique pieces which were donated by the ruling Quwasim family and also originate from a private collection."

Wearing jewellery has always been an important tradition in the Gulf and Arabian Peninsula and silver was very popular. Some of the jewellery is for everyday wear and others for gala occasions.

The museum displays necklaces, bracelets, armlets, anklets, rings, earrings and head adornments, highlighting skillful craftsmanship. Velede said the pieces were mainly made for women, but there are also several beautiful items designed for children and men.

The collection is being studied with the aim of floating a webpage on traditional silver jewellery - the first of its kind in the UAE - which will be included in the museum's website: www.rakmuseum.gov.ae.

A part of the collection is displayed in the Silver Room of the museum and open to the public.

Museum timings have been adjusted, especially during the colder months, for the public's convenience. The timings are: September through to May, 10am-5pm. It is closed on Tuesdays and open on all public holidays.

From June through to August it will be open from 8am-12pm and from 4pm-7pm. It will remain closed on Tuesdays and open on all public holidays.

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