**First Time At Auction**

Central Asia, Bactria, ca. 2000 BCE. A wonderful strand of 86 ancient carnelian beads that are hand carved and drilled in spherical, barrel, lozenge, and faceted shapes. The central pendant bead has a wonderful crescent profile with darker banding across the center. The carnelian stones present warm hues of citrine and vermilion with some exhibiting a nice translucency. The mineral deposits that have developed over the ages also grace the surfaces of the beads with white and beige deposits that contrast nicely with the red of the carnelian. The beads are strung on a modern wire and suspended within a glass and wood frame. Size of necklace doubled: 8.6" L (21.8 cm); largest bead: 0.5" L (1.3 cm); frame: 10.75" L x 1.5" W x 13.125" H (27.3 cm x 3.8 cm x 33.3 cm)

Provenance: ex-Stein collection, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, USA, acquired July 29, 2002; ex-B.C. Galleries

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#164234

Chips and nicks to beads as expected with age. Losses and surface pitting. Light mineral deposits. Strung in modern times on a modern wire and displayed in a wood and glass case. Attached to frame verso is a certificate from previous gallery.