Until the end of the 19th century, when the Russians invaded Turkmenistan and destroyed the power and status of the Turkmen tribes, they were an immense presence in Central Asia. Their knotted carpets, rugs and dowry bags were highly prized and of considerable value. The Turkmen also produced fabulous jewellery; silver earrings, amulets and crowns, many fire-gilded and decorated in semi precious stones such as carnelians and lapis lazuli.