These very special ancient excavated blue Islamic beads are found in Mauritania and Mali, specifically in the caravan towns of Timbuktu, Mopti, Djenne and Gao. They vary in design and wear, patina and iridescence, and are somewhere in between 600-1000 years old (or more). They have been buried for hundreds of years and may have once had eyes on them, or perhaps were made to be worn with eye beads. Blue is generally used traditionally for protection by Islamic and African societies and people, with or without the eye.
Strand of 60+ beads. A few with eyes and some with more wear than others.
Range of bead sizes from 8-15mm hole-to-hole. 25 inches of beads.
These blue glass beads are lovely for any collector, or for design in earrings or necklaces. Well worn and gorgeous. Really a very beautiful and useful set of beads.
Ancient Glass Beads Item 105f