Description

Two strands of ancient Nila beads from the region of Gao.
These beads arrived in Mali, some 800 years ago, via the ancient trade routes crossing Djenne, Gao and Timbuktu.
Nila, the Arabic word for “blue”, describes the variations of blues in these ancient beads.
Rich iridescent surface patina – Collected in Mali.

Diameter of beads: 4mm-12mm
Height of beads:3mm-6mm
Length of strands: 64cm and 70cm

About ANCIENT BEADS
Beads are carriers of history and traditions and are as old as the beginning of human existence.
Islamic period beads traveled extensively along the trans-Saharan trade routes.
Their widespread distribution reflects the role of the Islamic world as a centre in medieval commerce.
Beads crossed continents, seas and deserts to be traded and valued as symbols of wealth and social rank.
Islamic glass bead production spans several centuries, and the production techniques are complex and varied.