Turquoise - Silver - Torc - Dignitary torque "Kafir"

Exceptional rigid necklace (torque) from Nouristan (formerly Kafiristan), a mountainous region in the northeast of Afghanistan.
This piece is a rare testament to the culture of the Kafirs ("the infidels"), a people who preserved their ancestral polytheistic traditions until their forced Islamization in 1895/1896 by Emir Abdur Rahman Khan.
Significance and Rank:
In pre-Islamic Kafiristan society, these torques were not mere jewelry but insignia of high social status.
According to ethnologist Alfred Janata (reference in the work "Schmuck in Afghanistan"), wearing this type of spiral necklace was a privilege strictly reserved for clan chiefs, renowned warriors, and close family members.
Production of these objects ceased almost immediately after 1900, making them historical collectible pieces.
Technical characteristics & fabrication details:
Structure: A massive, imposing body formed by a thick metal wire spiral, into which a secondary finer twisted wire is inserted, creating a complex relief pattern.
Terminations: The ends are finished with stylized hook-like buds (or buttons) curving inward, typical of Nouristan craftsmanship.
Ornamentation: Two lateral rosettes are applied to the body of the torque. Each is set with an antique blue glass cabochon (glass paste), intact, symbolizing spiritual protection.
Material: Alloy of silver (low-purity silver), confirmed by touchstone test: pale yellow reaction.
This composition is characteristic of tribal jewelry of the period, often melted from old coins.
Dimensions: Diameter approximately 16 cm x 19 cm. Total extended length: 44 cm.
Substantial weight: 465 grams (a noble weight for this type of piece).
Condition:
Good overall condition. The object shows an authentic, deep patina of use, with no obvious modern restoration. The glass beads are original.
Provenance:
Item from a private collection.
Careful packing and protection for shipment.
Contractual photos: the item shown is the one you will receive.
Feel free to contact me with any questions or for additional photos.