Brass · Southern Morocco, Draa Valley

Ornamental Dagger (Koummya)

Curved ceremonial daggers with ornate brass, silver, or bone-handled sheaths. A symbol of Amazigh heritage and traditional dress.

History & Cultural Context

The koummya is a distinctive curved dagger traditionally worn by men across southern Morocco, tucked into a belt sash. It serves as ceremonial dress and a symbol of tribal identity. The most elaborate examples feature silver filigree, gemstone inlay, and engraved blades.

Materials

Carbon steel bladeForged and ground blade
Brass or silver sheathOrnately decorated scabbard
Bone or wood handleCarved handle material

Production Techniques

Blade forgingTraditional
Steel heated and hammered into curved blade shape
Sheath engraving and filigreeTraditional
Decorative metalwork on the scabbard

Production Notes

Blade forged from carbon steel. Handle and sheath crafted from brass, silver, bone, or wood. Decorative elements include engraving, filigree, and stone setting. A master-crafted koummya takes 1–3 weeks.

Quality Indicators

Authenticity

Hand-forged blade with visible hammer texture

Quality

Tight fit between blade and sheath

Red Flags

Loose-fitting sheath with visible glue

Price Ranges

Budget80 – 250 MAD(~$8 – $25)

Simple tourist-grade, basic sheath, dull blade

Mid-range250 – 700 MAD(~$25 – $70)

Good metalwork, engraved sheath, functional blade

Premium700 – 2000 MAD(~$70 – $200)

Silver sheath, detailed filigree, bone handle

Luxury2000 – 6000 MAD(~$200 – $600)

Master silversmith, gemstone inlay, antique or exhibition quality