Amiantal Jewels

Euphemism for “the Virgins.” Amiantal comes from the Greek “amiantos,” meaning “undefiled,” “pure,” “untouched.” It is the designation for Circassian Adyge princesses who are still virgins, attested by the doe-leather corset worn by Adyge girls from the onset of puberty. The garment is meant to safeguard a girl’s virginity through her adolescence until her wedding night.

IMAGE TO BE INPUT FROM OC ARCHIVE