Description

Ancient Islamic frosted beads of oval shape.
Most of the glass beads have a beautiful iridescent patina.
During the Trans-Sahara caravan routes, a variety of beads were traded along Djenne, Gao and Timbuktu.
The beads in rich translucent blues shades are in good condition.
Some surface pitting, normal for beads of such great age.
Strand of 32 beads, 10th to 12th century.
Collected in Mali.

Length: 12mm to 22mm
Width: 6mm to 11mm
Strand: 51 cm (20″)

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.