Diyarbakır Kişnişli Kolye

Diyarbakır kişnişli kolye is a traditional jewelry piece unique to Diyarbakır, crafted entirely by hand from 14 or 22 karat gold. Registered as a Geographical indication on July 12, 2024, under Law No. 6769 on Industrial Property, it was applied for by the Diyarbakır Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Production and processing must occur within Diyarbakır province.

Diyarbakır Kişnişli Kolye (T.C. Diyarbakır Valiliği)

The necklace consists of approximately 700 pieces, each handmade and joined using soldering techniques. The balls are composed of two parts, with a diameter of 5.5 mm and a weight of 0.15 grams. The stars placed on the sequins are six-pointed, weighing 0.6 grams each and measuring 6 mm in diameter. These details contribute to the necklace’s technical and aesthetic distinctiveness.

Production Process

The gold plates used are obtained by melting 24 karat gold at 1200°C and adding copper to reduce it to 14 or 22 karat. These plates are rolled to the desired micron thickness, from which the components are produced:

• Balls: 0.12 micron-thick plates are pressed into two half-caps, sanded, and soldered together using a steel apparatus.
• Stars and Sequins: 0.30 micron telkari wires are twisted into star shapes. 300 sequins are stamped from the same plate, arranged on the stars, and soldered.
• Connecting Rings: 40 micron-thick wires are cut to link the balls, stars, and sequins in each row, using 160 pieces per row.
• Chain: 40 micron-thick wires are wrapped around a malafa spike to form rings, which are interlocked and soldered into a chain.
• Clasp: Two wire pieces are shaped on a tube using a press to create the clasp attached to the necklace strand.

Geographical Connection and Inspection

Diyarbakır kişnişli kolye holds a significant place in the region’s economic and cultural history, establishing a strong reputation link with the area. All production stages must take place within Diyarbakır province.

Inspections are conducted at least annually under the coordination of the Diyarbakır Chamber of Commerce and Industry, with participation from experts of the Diyarbakır Jewelers and Goldsmiths Chamber. They verify component suitability, adherence to the production method, and correct use of the Geographical indication. Expert support from public or private institutions may be sought when necessary.