Description

D102 Ancient Djenne beads from Mali.
The large white beads are amazonite, whose colour has changed from centuries of burial in the desert sands.
Two blue Aggrey beads are among other beads with a rich iridescence.
Traded along the ancient caravan routes crossing Africa, these beads are approximately 1000 years old.

Diameters: 3-12 mm
Length: 3-25 mm
Length: 56 cm (22″)

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.