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Large Antique Tibetan Himalayan Carnelian Bead Necklace, Hand-Cut Banded Agate

$2,950
£2,228.87
€2,553.61
CA$4,116.21
A$4,486.46
CHF 2,371.95
MX$54,008.41
NOK 30,105.95
SEK 27,601
DKK 19,075.56

About the Item

A striking strand of large antique Tibetan–Himalayan carnelian beads, each one individually hand-cut and polished from natural banded agate. These beads display the unmistakable characteristics of early Himalayan craftsmanship: rich fiery tones ranging from deep amber to honeyed orange, natural banding, mineral inclusions, and surface weathering consistent with significant age and devotional wear. Traditionally, beads of this type circulated along the ancient trans-Himalayan trade routes linking Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, Northern India, and Western China. Highly prized for their protective and talismanic qualities, carnelian beads were believed to strengthen vitality, courage, and grounding energy. Their smooth, organic surfaces and irregular shapes reflect hand-cut techniques used long before modern machinery. This necklace is a rare surviving example of early Himalayan beadwork—substantial in size, visually powerful, and highly collectible. Mounted on a contemporary silk cord with a simple metal hook clasp, allowing the beads to be worn or displayed as an ethnographic artifact. Period: 19th century or earlier Origin: Tibetan / Himalayan region Material: Natural hand-cut carnelian (banded agate) Bead Size: Approx. 15–20 mm (varied due to hand-cutting) Length: 20 inches Weight: 203 grams Finish: Naturally aged; mineral inclusions, surface pitting, ancient polish Stringing: Modern silk cord with metal hook clasp Professionally restrung in 2025 Condition: Excellent antique condition; expected irregularities consistent with age Perfect for: Collectors of Tibetan, Himalayan, Silk Road, and ethnographic jewelry Designers seeking ancient beads with presence Clients drawn to bold organic luxury and spiritual antiquities Displays in curated interiors, jewelry vitrines, or spiritual collections This strand wears like a statement sculpture—earthy, elemental, and undeniably ancient. PROVENANCE From a private Himalayan ethnographic jewelry collection, acquired from a Tibetan family in Nepal.
  • Metal:
  • Stone:
  • Stone Cut:
  • Weight:
    203 g
  • Dimensions:
    Length: 20 in (508 mm)
  • Style:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    Early 1800s
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Milford, DE
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 25981stDibs: LU1330128036962

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