Shahid, Ring

This handmade ring, which dates to 1920, was worn on the index finger for everyday purposes, but was also commonly worn during weddings. It is called shahid, which means ’witness’ in Arabic, symbolising the belief in the oneness of God.

The ring features an almon-shaped motif and incised decorations. It originally had three stones, but one is now lost. Of the two remaining stones, one is reddish-purple and the other is green, and the tip of the ring is decorated with a flower. Red and green are prominent colours in traditional Qatari jewellery.