ⵎⴰⵔⵃⴱⴰ – Welcome

In the rich landscapes of Moroccan heritage, few symbols resonate as deeply as the Tazarzit, the traditional Amazigh fibula. This iconic piece of jewelry is more than a decorative object—it is a profound emblem of Amazigh identity, a marker of history, and a testament to the artistry of its makers. Tanmiirt ( Thank you) for your interest in this micro-social enterprise, where the stories of the Tazarzit—the iconic Amazigh fibula pin —unfold.

You may find yourself inspired to acquire a silver Tazarzit n Towkka pin—a heritage design that not only sustains the artisans who craft it but also breathes life into this specific design. This endeavor is rooted in our own journey of discovery through Jewlery Quest, a 10-day immersive exploration of Moroccan heritage that has allowed us to build lasting relationships with the makers and communities of these extraordinary pieces. In choosing to acquire this heritage pin, you don’t merely wear a symbol—you carry with you a story of the Amazigh people and their region. Let us reveal how……

The Artisan 

Mallum (Master) M’bark Ben Said is a silversmith whose craft runs deeper than memory, passed down through countless generations. Hailing from the Amazigh (Berber) community of Ida Ousmlal in the Tafraoute region, his lineage reflects the rich heritage of the Anti-Atlas. Now, he resides and it greatly respected, just outside Morocco’s silver capitol, Tiznit.

Mallum M’bark has two sons who are deeply familiar with their culture and thier fathers silversmithing, often assisting their father in his craft. They are Tachelhit speakers of a Tamazight (Berber) language specific to the south and southeast of Morocco.

This social enterprise project seeks to support not only Mallum M’bark himself but also his sons, inspiring the continuation of their heritage craft. M’bark, despite continuing to be creatively active had not crafted a traditional Tazarzit like this one since the late 1990s. With the development of this project’s protocol, we at Culture Vultures, alongside the Master Silversmith, aspire to revive the production of this stunning heritage peice. 

The People and thier Land

The Amazigh people (also known as Berber) are the indigenous people of Morocco. For many years, Amazigh people have been fighting—and continue to this day—to ensure their recognition as a distinct people and culture, honoring their history and foundational contributions to Moroccan identity.

The launch of our project on the Amazigh New Year, 2975. The Amazigh calendar is believed to be rooted in the reign of the first Amazigh king in ancient Egypt, symbolizing both historical significance and cultural continuity.

The Amazigh people have ruled what is now Morocco at various points in history, leaving a lasting impact on the region’s culture and governance. Notable Amazigh dynasties include the Almoravids and Almohads, who unified the Maghreb and extended their rule into Spain, and the Marinids, known for their architectural and educational contributions, such as the Bou Inania Madrasa in Fez. Even before the Islamic period, Amazigh rulers like Juba II and Syphax governed parts of North Africa, showcasing the early political influence of the Amazigh people in shaping the region’s identity.

The design of this Tazarzit broach is specific from Imi Talelt community, it’s triangle, with its angular protruding shapes mirroring the regions mountain forms, and its staggered edges reflecting the rugged landscape of the Anti-Atlas Mountain range. This connection to the land reinforces the deep symbiosis between the people and their environment.

This projects’ launch date, the Amazigh New Year, January 12th (Julian calendar), is a date that reflects the significance of the heritage Tazarzit brooch and our commitment to supporting and sharing the rich culture and traditions of the Amazigh people.

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Tazarzit n Towkka – The Pin

Weighing approximately 70 grams, consisting of aproximately 90% silver and measuring 14 cm in length, this pin is smaller than its historical counterparts (see the far-right picture in the top banner of this article), making it ideal as a modern statement lapel piece. 

Handcrafted by the skilled master, with hundreds of tiny rings meticulously placed within the framework and its striking fringe shapes that are melted into one—a true testament to traditional craftsmanship reimagined for today .This style of ring-filled silversmithing is known in Tachelhit tamazight as Towkka ( translating as ‘worm’, reflected in the multiple tiny silver wire circles.)

The centerpiece features red Iraqi glass—a testament to the far-reaching trade routes in which southeast Morocco played a pivotal role. According to jewelry historian Sigrid Van Roode (Bedouin Silver), red—a prominent color in the region’s heritage adornments—is believed to ward off the evil eye. Additionally, the pin mechanism, featuring a large circle and a long pin, once symbolized fertility. Beauty as power, beauty as strength, but also beauty to protect you. designed to draw the eye and project strength.

These pins were often worn as a pair, connected by a chain, and traditionally placed on either side of the chest or shoulders. They served the practical purpose of fastening cloth, in doing so creating garments, while also holding significant value as statement pieces that symbolized the wearer’s identity, tribe, and connection to their land.

The silver heritage piece, purchased through us, is presented in an elegant gift box accompanied by a thoughtfully crafted booklet that shares this information and more. It also includes a project card with a QR code, allowing you to carry the story with you and effortllessly share.

The Price of Tazarzit n Twokka by Mallum M’bark via Culture Vultures is 265 USD ( + postage). 

The Micro-Enterprise Project – Tazarzit Twokka

The Org – Culture Vultures is an arts and cultural organization rooted in the heart of Morocco, celebrating the artistic expressions of the country and its people. Through artist residencies, artisan connections and Craft Quest Tours we connect visitors with Moroccos artisanship, culture and arts community.

This project was born from a desire to foster regenerative tourism, emerging from the immersive heritage tour Jewelry Quest and the strong relationships build along the road. By connecting deeply with Morocco’s artisans and cultural traditions, we aim to create meaningful exchanges that sustain and celebrate the country’s rich heritage.

Whilst the majority of the financial profit goes directly to the artisan, the regeneration of cultural heritage stands as a lasting benefit to the world at large. By purchasing, wearing and sharing the story of this stunning piece, you too become an ambassador for the Amazigh people and its culture.  Can tourism move beyond consumption to actively support cultural regeneration? We say a definate IYER!

Conact us on info@culturevultures.ma 

or Whats App to enquire about acquiring Tazarzit nTowkka