Erzurum Burma

Erzurum Burması, also known as the Erzurum Burma Bracelet, is a traditional bracelet handmade and unique to the province of Erzurum. Made from 22-karat gold or 925 sterling silver, this bracelet is among the distinguished examples of Turkish jewelry art due to its original design and production technique. It was officially registered as a geographical indication with a mark of origin on 25 December 2024. The registration process was carried out by the Erzurum Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Structural Features

The Erzurum Burma consists of three main components: kaş (clasp), kordon (chain), and kilit (lock):

• Kordon is formed from double-layered wire twisted into 22 to 28 loops around itself.
• Kaş is the distinctive element of the bracelet, featuring intricate decorative and engraving work requiring high craftsmanship. The wire thickness used ranges from 70 to 200 microns depending on the design.
• Kilit connects the two ends; the end piece is locally referred to as “kitlek”.

Bracelets are named according to their kaş model: single-kaş, double-kaş, three-kaş with spikes, leaf-kaş, perforated sack-kaş, and S-kaş. These models may feature motifs such as heart, tulip, sun, and daisy.

Production Process

The production process relies on carefully planned handcrafting and includes the following steps:

• Preparation of gold or silver wire: The wire is heated, annealed, rolled, and treated with beeswax to achieve the desired length and flexibility.
• Weaving the kordon: The doubled wire is fixed in a vise and manually bent until the required number of loops is formed.
• Shaping the kaş: The kaş design is drawn on a gold or silver plate, cut out, and decorated using traditional local techniques known as “yeğe”, “kursun”, and “tırtır”.
• Joining the kordon and kaş: The kaş and kordon are welded together, shaped, polished, and prepared for sale.
• To prevent loss of gold fragments during production, a leather cover called “tepir” is laid under the work surface, using a local term.

Cultural Significance

The Erzurum Burma is not merely a piece of jewelry; it is a traditional object with a special place in the regional culture. It is traditionally given as mahr during engagement ceremonies or presented as a gift at weddings. The kaş models and decorative techniques are unique to the Erzurum region, establishing a direct link between its identity and geographical origin.

Monitoring and Protection

The production of the bracelet is monitored through a control system coordinated by the Erzurum Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the institution that registered the product. Compliance with production standards—including the integrity of the kaş-kordon-kilit structure and proper marking—is inspected at least once annually. The inspection committee includes experts specializing in the product.