Benghazi – Khaled Mohammed Al-Haddar issued an urgent appeal. He is an archaeology expert. He is also a faculty member at Benghazi University. He called for the protection of national silver heritage. It faces risks of melting and disappearance. Increasing challenges threaten Libya’s cultural heritage. This includes tangible and intangible forms.
Al-Haddar specifically addressed gold and silver merchants. He also addressed precious metal jewelers. He warned of a “heritage massacre.” This could harm national identity. It results from increased melting of traditional silver jewelry and pieces. He explained that markets are seeing widespread sales of old silver items. This includes traditional women’s jewelry. Unprecedented global silver price rises drive this trend. These items are treated as “scrap silver.” They are sent to smelters to become raw ingots.
Al-Haddar noted these practices erase centuries-old engravings. They also destroy handmade decorations. These are an authentic part of Libyan identity. He affirmed these jewels are not just precious metals. They are engraved historical documents. They embody endangered manual skills. They spiritually fall under the principles of the 2003 UNESCO Convention. This convention concerns safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.
He added that melting a heritage silver piece is an obliteration. It destroys an archaeological landmark. Its importance matches historical buildings. The true value of these pieces lies in their anthropological and artistic dimensions. It is not in their weight or market price. He urged gold and silver merchants to recognize their national responsibility. He also called on the Jewelers and Precious Metals Syndicate. They are guardians of Libya’s authentic history.
In the same context, Al-Haddar demanded urgent intervention. He addressed concerned authorities. He also addressed civil society organizations. He proposed activating “the alternative buyer.” This means businessmen, the Department of Antiquities, and the Ministry of Culture. They should purchase these items from markets. Prices must exceed their melting value. This would ensure their preservation. It would protect them from damage and loss.
He also called for strict standards. These must prevent melting or exporting silver pieces. Such pieces should have rare historical or artistic significance. He urged an urgent digital documentation campaign. It would photograph and inventory pieces in jewelers’ shops. This must happen before their permanent loss. Al-Haddar concluded his appeal by calling on citizens. They must bear their historical responsibility. This applies to their family heirlooms. He affirmed that discarding grandmothers’ silver discards historical narratives. These belong to future generations. Losing heritage transforms a nation. It becomes a body without memory or foresight.