Petrological discoveries in Saudi Arabia have revealed rock face carvings that show human forms, lavishly adorned with bracelets, anklets, earrings, pendants and head ornaments. Although these rock sketches are more than seven thousand years old, they portray styles bearing a strong resemblance to the bold, distinctive designs of today's Bedouin jewellery. Admittedly, few of the pieces currently around are more than 50 years old, but the origin of the patterns and shapes is deeply-rooted in ancient times.
Most pieces are large and dramatic.
Necklaces and pendants characteristically feature silver bells, balls, coloured beads, coins and links of intricate chain-mail mesh. Their surface is usually embossed with calligraphy and can be left unadorned or set with semi-precious stones. Finger, ear, nose and head ornaments are varied in their style, but most have their surfaces decorated with either abstract motifs or flowing curvilinears inspired by the teachings of the Qur'an. Bedouin women receive their jewellery as a wedding present. Customarily, a prospective bridegroom pays the bride's father a dowry, part of which he uses to buy jewellery for his daughter.