In the hair is sometimes worn an ornament forming two wings, each
consisting of a single diamond, which moves on small fine hinges, and is
so arranged that the least breath of air will set it in motion. In the
centre uniting the two wings, is a small crimson stone surmounted by a
large round stone of purple-blue, from which sprouts out a very fine
dagger of a greenish-gold colour. The rest of the head-dress is made of
fine metal, chosen for its lightness, of the same tints. These metals
are of equal, perhaps greater value, than gold, but are chosen for their
qualities. The necklace and anklets correspond in character to the
headdress, with the addition to the former of one large pearl, which
hangs to the wings and rests on the lady's bosom. The bracelets are made
in your Greek style--bands of gold set with large pearls. The soles to
protect the feet are gilded with ravine metal. The sandals, which are of
purple enamel of a peculiar kind, are often ornamented with jewels. The
fan is composed of the choicest feathers of our native birds, and set in
ravine metal of the most beautiful kind, studded with pearls and other
precious stones.
We have pearls, diamonds, and other precious stones of a very remarkable
kind, whose electricities are supposed to have a certain influence over
the wearer. Thus, diamonds in Montalluyah have, it is thought, a
tendency to increase the circulation; and when I have been fatigued by
excessive study, a chain of peculiar diamonds has been placed near my
skin to revive me.
Ladies sometimes wear a small turban with a gold tassel on the crown of
the head. For the open air the head is covered with a turban, in front
of which is a small shade, which, by means of a spring, falls down and
protects the eyes and face from the sun.
Ladies of superior quality rarely wear turbans, for they seldom go
abroad in the heat of the sun, and when they do, they are shaded by a
canopy, supported at each corner by a pole, and borne by four men. When
walking in their grounds ladies use long veils, covering them from head
to ankle, which they also wear when on horseback, but they never mount
in the heat of the sun.
Every unmarried woman, without exception of class, wears a distinctive
feature on her dress. The drapery is fixed with a jewel to the right
shoulder, and the right arm is bare. On the other hand, the married
woman's arms are always covered with falling drapery, though by certain
movements she shows the arm. It is not till after marriage that the lady
is allowed to wear very elaborate costumes.