4-Strand Bracelet with Antique Blue & Black Seed Beads and Kakanba Clasp

This is a 4-strand bracelet connected with antique blue and black seed beads. The mixed blue and black beads are old Indian seed beads, dating from around the 19th-20th century. Their irregular shapes are strung together, creating a sense of harmony. These were originally worn as personal adornments like necklaces. (Bead size: 2-3mm) The blue beads used in the clasp are antique beads known as Indo-Pacific beads. The origins of Indo-Pacific beads are said to date back to the 2nd century BC. These particular beads are excavated artifacts from Indonesia, dating back to around the 10th century – over 1000 years old! The golden beads are old Orissa brass, rare and ancient beads from the Orissa region of India. Each small bead on the clasp is Karen silver, and each one is individually stamped! It's mind-boggling to think that all of this is done by hand... ◇ Karen Silver ◇ This silver is crafted by a mountain ethnic group living in Thailand and Burma. Each piece is handmade, and it is said to have a very high purity. The beads for the clasp were made in Czechia and exported to Africa as antique beads (early 20th century). They are known as Kakanba in West Africa. At first glance, they may appear black, but when held up to the light, their beautiful sapphire blue becomes apparent. As they are old, there are some small scratches. (Kakanba size: 1.3cm diameter) They are strung with waxed cord, which may feel slightly stiff at first but will become supple with wear. Size Length: Approximately 19.7cm (when laid straight) Inner circumference: Approximately 17.1cm Materials: Glass, Karen Silver, Old Orissa Brass, Waxed Cord