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A digital archive showcasing the extensive collection of jewellery and adornment images shared on the former Ethnic Jewels Ning site over the years. These images have significantly enriched discussions on cultural adornment and its global dispersion.

Ancient Amber Necklace. (Russian?).

Posted by Frankie Carter on January 31, 2014 at 1:44pm
Length 18.75"/47.7cms.Weight 92.6 grms.Hand cut and hand facetted.I am told that this necklace hasn`t seen the light of day for 60 years and that it belonged to the wife of a former soviet dignitary. It was collected - that was the word used - in Kaliningrad/Konigsburg in 1940.The photos show the crust that forms on amberover many years. This is not the same as the break up of material that comes from exposure to sunlight.I have no way of knowing the actual age of this necklace but it looks very similar to those frequently described as Roman.It came to me from Bulgaria where such necklaces are valued for their so-called medical properties.Even today amber teething necklaces for babies are quite big business.
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Tags: Russia
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  • Eva Baby January 31, 2014 at 2:59pm

    what an interesting Piece and Story! I cannot help,   just like it and wonder what the experts will say. Also the colour is a Little different from the amber I had seen so far, has this something to do with the crust you mention? largest finds had been made in Eastern Prussia according to my German  guide book on precious stones, that means west of Kaliningrad /Königsberg) which you mention in your text. It was indeed used as remedy against all kinds of sicknesses in ancient times. Lucky babies who get amber necklaces as teething aids!

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