This nose ring is of gold, gold beads & filigree work, red glass beads and a turquoise cabochon. The gold elements are particularly fine.
Nose rings were worn by Uzbek women in central Asia. They were attached to the right nostril and were believed to prevent malignant spirits from entering the body whilst the wearer inhaled.
Related nose rings are illustrated in Seiwert (2009, p. 192), Hoek (2004, p. 105) and van Cutsem (2005, p. 82).
References
van Cutsem, A., A World of Head Ornaments: Africa, Asia Oceania, America, Skira, 2005.
Hoek, C., et al, Ethnic Jewellery: From Africa, Asia and Pacific Islands, Pepin Press, 2004.
Seiwert, W.D., Jewellery from the Orient: Treasures from the Bir Collection, Arnoldsche Art Publishers, 2009.