The Matchmaker's Ring

There are many types of jewelry. Most of them are women's ornaments. These items not only demonstrate aesthetic beauty but also carry a number of functional meanings in accordance with customs, traditions, and rituals. One such ornament is the kudagy ring (matchmaker's ring). It is made of silver — a soft, forging-resistant, and easily workable metal. It is worn on two fingers simultaneously, has a wide flat top resembling a shanyrak (the crown of a yurt), with a voluminous surface, sometimes dome-shaped. On the gleaming bright dome, a shanyrak-like pattern is applied in two places, and sometimes triangular or circular ornaments. The long oval shape in the center of the ring, dividing it, is based on the belief in generational continuity, which plays a great role in preserving marriage. Below there is a double base worn on two adjacent fingers. Kudagy rings were mainly made in the west and southwest of Kazakhstan. The bride's mother had the kudagy ring specially made to present to the matchmaker after one year. However, such a traditional gift was not given to every matchmaker. The kudagy ring is a traditional gift presented only to wise matchmakers who showed maternal warmth toward the bride, and as a sign of unity between two intermarried clans.

Wearing it on two fingers has its own meaning: it signifies that the children of two families found a common language, raised one shanyrak (yurt), and became one family. Both matchmakers, like this ring, firmly hold the established household so that its threshold is strong and life is long, with the wish that the soul be pure as silver and shine brightly. When worn on the two middle fingers of the right hand, the ring almost completely covers the outer side of four fingers. Jewelry was often adorned with precious stones. Kazakhs called them "tas" (stone) or "koz" (eye). Such comparison is not coincidental: the set stone was perceived as an all-seeing and protecting eye possessing magical power. Large rings resembling a turtle shell were considered a symbol of longevity, as in the East, the turtle is recognized as the longest-living creature.

The kudagy ring is a sign of respect between people, a display of attention and honor. Our ancestors, who said "Time creates art," wove their life's journey and emotional experiences into handicraft items. Undoubtedly, craft items with their unique mystery and appearance, simple in use, will continue their instructive journey from century to century.