Gorgeous Long Strand of Blue Glass Islamic Eye Beads from Mauritania - Rita Okrent Collection (AG224)

Long strand of exquisite antique and ancient eye beads from Mauritania. Many rare beads on this strand. 

These very special ancient excavated eye beads are found in Mauritania and Mali, specifically in the caravan towns of Timbuktu, Mopti, Djenne and Gao. They vary in design and wear, and iridescence, and are estimated to be somewhere in between 400-1000 years old.

Traded and worn to keep away the "evil eye" in many cultures across the Mediterranean.

Lots of variety on this strand. 7 blue beads with red eyes.  13 green beads. Several beads have yellow eyes. One tube bead. 95 beads. 36 inches of beads on strand.Bead sizes range from 10-14mm. Most beads are in good condition.

One of our favorite strands.

Ancient Glass Item 224