This neck ring represents a fraction of the wide repertoire of silver jewellery made, worn and exchanged by highland communities in northern Thailand. Large neckrings were worn in tiered sets or with a chain and pendant known as a ‘soul lock'. This twisted neck ring is worn mainly by the Lahu.The Lahu is an ethnic minority group who migrated into Northern Thailand from China and Burma during the 18th and 19th centuries. For many highland communities, silver was valued more highly than gold. Silver jewellery was a way of investing a family’s wealth to be passed down as heirlooms. It was also believed to have protective properties. Today, where security maybe a problem, silver is kept locked away while aluminium is used as a substitute.
