One of the things that the nomadic Amazigh Tuareg are famous for are their “crosses”, called ‘Teneghelt’ in their Amazigh dialect of Tamasheq.
There are officially 21 crosses, with each design indicating the city/town of origin of the individual wearing it. Strictly made of silver, in line with Islamic teachings, the designs are a beautiful union of the male and female symbols.
The origin of these crosses is disputed, but they are generally thought to be worn as a talisman to protect from the evil eye. Traditionally, they are handed down from father to son at puberty; a symbolic reminder of their nomadic Tuareg lifestyle and origins.
Source : Â Libyan Amazigh 101
