Gallery

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.

Mystery Bead

Posted by Edith D on November 14, 2017 at 6:18am

I was told that this is a very old bead found on Java, but the seller did not have much information. I am not even sure what material this is made of, but it is dense and has a heavy weight for its size. It could be glass and some of the surface has a vitreous appearance. The patina on it is the sort I would expect to see on an object that had been buried. There is an iron spot on one side of the bead. The surface is incised with curvy lines. Any additional info would be appreciated!