Tibetan Ghu Ghau Bell Earrings Appraisal

Tibetan or Himalayan Ghu Ghau Bell Earrings

This is a pair of handcrafted dangle earrings, likely of Tibetan or Himalayan origin, featuring spherical ghu-shaped bells. The items are fashioned from a silver-toned metal alloy, possibly low-grade silver, white metal, or nickel silver, displaying a deep, aged grey-black patina consistent with significant oxidation and exposure. Each earring consists of a large, hollow, spherical bead adorned with repoussé and filigree-style ribbing that creates a melon or citrus-like texture. Decorative vertical and horizontal bands segment the sphere, suggesting traditional nomadic or tribal craftsmanship. From the base of each large sphere, a short, delicate metal chain suspends a smaller, solid metal droplet or seed-like bead, providing kinetic movement and a subtle chiming sound characteristic of bells. The central sphere on one earring appears slightly crushed or dented, indicating the thinness of the metal and moderate wear from use. The overall construction utilizes wire-wrapping and hand-soldered links rather than modern machine-made components. These pieces likely date to the mid-20th century or earlier, representative of ethnic minority jewelry intended for both adornment and spiritual protection. Their weathered surface and irregularities reflect authentic folk-art production quality.