Four-Strand Necklace with Vintage Blue and Clear Beads, Mandarin Carnelian, Gold-Red White Heart, Amber and Peacock Blue Beads, Turquoise Clasp

This is a four-strand necklace strung with vintage blue and clear beads, mandarin-shaped carnelian, gold-red white heart beads, amber and peacock blue beads, and more. The blue beads are trading beads, crafted in China around the mid-1900s. They possess a captivating hue, somewhere between indigo blue and blue-green. These beads are in good condition, with only minor surface scratches. (Vintage bead size: 0.8cm length x 1cm diameter) The charming, ribbed mandarin-shaped carnelian beads are vintage Chinese beads. Glass beads of this shape can also be found in Japanese Edo-dama (Wagyu), Chinese beads, and among the Naga tribe. Their plump, rounded form is utterly delightful, and they are in excellent condition. The slightly random variation in the ribbing width, a result of being hand-carved, adds to their unique appeal. Their color variation and translucence when held to the light create a beautiful, warm glow. The characteristic agate banding is also visible. (Carnelian bead size: 0.7cm length x 0.9cm diameter) The clear beads are likely antique beads from the Indian region, possibly Naga beads from around the 19th century. The subtle scratches from age lend them a wonderful, atmospheric patina. (Clear bead size: 0.8cm width x 0.8cm diameter) The amber and peacock blue beads are old Indian seed beads. Their worn texture speaks of a long history of being cherished and worn. (Circa 19th-20th century) Each bead's unique shape lends the strand a rich expressiveness. (Bead size: 2-2.5mm) Near the clasp, the deep red beads are antique "White Heart" beads, named for their white core. These are Venetian beads from the 19th-20th century. Their rich red color is achieved through the use of gold in the glass-making process, making them a rare "gold-red" variety. Indian Pacific beads have been incorporated into the loop of the clasp. These are antique beads known as Indian Pacific beads, with origins dating back to the 2nd century BCE. The beads used here are archaeological finds from Indonesia, dating back an astonishing 1000 years to around the 10th century! The golden beads are old Orissa brass beads, rare and ancient beads from the Orissa region of India. The small Karen silver beads on the clasp are each individually stamped! The thought of each one being painstakingly hand-stamped is almost unfathomable... ◇ Karen Silver ◇ This silver is crafted by a hill tribe living in Thai Burma. Each piece is handmade and said to be of exceptionally high purity. The clasp is made of turquoise. (Turquoise size: 1.2cm diameter) The necklace is strung with waxed cord, which may feel slightly stiff initially but will soften beautifully with wear. Length adjustments are also available! Size: Approximately 43.5cm (when laid straight) Materials: Glass, Vintage Carnelian, Karen Silver, Old Orissa Brass, Turquoise, Waxed Cord