Favorite Very Blue Glass Medium Sized Nila Beads from the West African Trade - Rita Okrent Collection (AT0422j)

Our favorite gorgeous very blue and teal ancient glass medium sized nila beads. 

Age: Circa approximately 1200-1600 C. E. These early Islamic-era glass beads were found along ancient trade routes in Mali

Several strands available. All have mix of teal, faded teal and green medium sized nilas.

Measurements: 27 inches / 69 cm of beads. The beads on these strand measure approximately from 5mm - 10mm diameter. 170 + beads on most strands. 

Condition: Good. Note wear, chipping and loss of color on some beads. Most of these beads have maintained their gorgeous hues. The beads' white patina from age and burial sometimes reveal more color when treated very gently with a tiny bit of olive oil (rub a little on your hands and then handle the beads). These beads can also be left as is.

More info:
Nila beads are the early Islamic-era glass beads that are widespread in West Africa, and are found in many colors and sizes. They are sometimes also referred to as Indo-Pacific or Trade Wind beads, in reference to the ocean streams and winds that, for centuries, were used by the Arab merchant ships bringing them from India to Africa. They often have oxidization patina from burial and age. Large quantities have been found along the river banks of the Niger river in Mali and buried in large quantities in clay pots, used as a form of currency. They are also found in the ground in parts of West Africa and Southeast Asia. The name "Nila" comes from the Sanskrit term for indigo.

As research and technology evolves, there is a greater ability to verify glass bead making by local manufacture in West Africa.
Some useful reference articles:
https://theconversation.com/how-we-found-the-earliest-glass-production-south-of-the-sahara-and-what-it-means-142059

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/317775780_Ancient_History_of_Technology_in_West_Africa_The_Indigenous_GlassGlass_Bead_Industry_and_the_Society_in_Early_Ile-Ife_Southwest_Nigeria

African Item 0422z