This is a set of fine gold containers set with diamonds that would have originally been part a sireh set. The practice of chewing the sireh or betel has a long history in Southeast Asia, remaining popular until the mid-20th century. People chewed betel not only for its mildly narcotic effects but also as a social activity. Betel chewing played a vital part in every important life-cycle ceremony – from weddings to funerals. For those who could afford them, finely made betel sets displayed the status of their owners. Many of these sets became family heirlooms, passing down from generation to generation, interestingly, usually through the female line.
