MY FAVORITE ANCIENT BEADS - as seen with my Western eyes
Like a sculptor, if
necessary,
carve a friend out of stone.
Realize that your inner sight is blind
and try to see a treasure in everyone. Rumi Jalalu'l-Din
On this page, you're invited to
immerse yourself in the diverse world of ancient beads, each
encapsulating an array of cultural, geographical, and historical
narratives. They present themselves in myriad shapes, colors,
patterns, and conditions. Some will bear the marks of time,
perhaps scarred or even close to shattering, while others will
retain a perfection that belies their ancient origins.
What unifying thread weaves these varied artifacts
together?
Beauty. Each piece, in my eyes, embodies an aesthetic
appeal that transcends time and space.
If your pursuit is for the sublime beauty reflected in
these artifacts, then we share the same wavelength,
predominantly influenced by Western aesthetics.
Consider this text not as a sales-oriented text but as an ode to
ancient beads.
The Role as a Custodian However, a word of caution: the exquisite pieces
showcased on this page do not come cheap. They represent my most
cherished collection, the beads that I've come to love as much
as one can appreciate inanimate works of art. I wouldn't mind
safeguarding them for this lifetime. You might ask, why then do
I offer some for sale while dubbing them as 'My Favorite Ancient
Beads'? Perhaps it's because I see myself as a temporary
custodian, and I wish for these beads to find appreciation in
the hands of their new guardians. Moreover, even after their
transition to a new custodian, I can still fondly regard them as
'my favorites'.
Name of the bead:
Facets of Forever
Presented above: Witness
the slender elegance of this bead, a cherished ancient talisman, a
multicolored Mauryan eye bead. Its allure transcends time, resonating
with a charm that connects us to a distant past. Every element of this
bead is a testament to deliberate artistry, not a detail left to chance.
Its composition is a marvel, a vibrant illustration of abstract
creativity from an era long gone. The diverse palette, intricately
arranged in an organic yet meticulously orchestrated symmetry, conveys
an energy that is anything but sterile.
Not for sale
FAB 1 - 31 * 7 mm -
Aproximate. age: 2200 years
Form, design/motif & color
The beauty of a bead, like all
aesthetic experiences, is ultimately a subjective affair. It
varies depending on the cultural context, personal inclinations,
and the unique experiences of the beholder. As has been
reiterated throughout this site, beauty truly does lie in the
eyes of the beholder.
To the Chinese connoisseur, a
bead's appeal often lies in its flawlessness, its pristine
state, untarnished by time or wear. In this perspective,
perfection is the pinnacle of beauty, and an unblemished bead is
the epitome of this ideal.
In contrast, my appreciation of ancient beads is often
deepened by their imperfections. The nicks, scratches, and
weathering they bear are testaments to their history, their
journey through the ages. These signs of age and use don't
detract from their beauty; instead, they enrich it, adding
layers of narrative and resonance.
Prism of the Past
Consider the extraordinary
effort required to extract these patterns and colors from the raw
material. Envision the tons of agate meticulously sifted, chiseled, and
polished to reveal the gem at its heart. Each bead is a triumph of
patience and precision over the stubborn raw material. This bead, thus,
is not merely an artifact, but a testament to the ancient artisans'
perseverance and their intimate understanding of the medium. To create
such a bead would in most cases take more than one month of hard
continuous work.
Not for sale
FAB
2
- 23
* 9 mm
- Aprox. age: 2200 years
What is a remarkable bead?
To me, a remarkable bead isn't
defined by a single attribute. It's a harmonious blend of its
form, design, motif, and color, each aspect contributing to the
whole. The form speaks to the skill and technique of the
artisan; the design and motif reveal the cultural context and
artistic traditions of its time. The color, whether vibrant or
faded, whether single-hued or multi-toned, adds its own unique
character.
Moreover, each bead is a silent storyteller, whispering
tales of the hands that crafted it, the lives that treasured it,
the epochs it survived. Each ancient bead is a tiny yet enduring
testament to human creativity, resilience, and the timeless
pursuit of beauty. This narrative aspect, the story a bead can
convey, adds an additional dimension to its appeal, making it
not just a piece of ornamentation, but a tangible piece of our
shared human history.
Zarathustrian Radiance of Resonance
It's a fascinating
observation that enthusiasts of beads in the Far East frequently
gravitate towards designs featuring an eye motif at the center. Yet,
when you delve deeper into these intricately crafted pieces, you'll find
that the placement of this central eye often adheres to the golden ratio
- a mathematical ratio frequently found in nature, and one that has been
used in art and design for millennia due to its aesthetically pleasing
properties.
Take, for instance, the extraordinary Indo-Parthian bead showcased here.
The eye motif isn't randomly situated; it has been meticulously
positioned according to the principles of the golden ratio. The golden
ratio, roughly 1:1.618, is often associated with harmony and balance,
attributes that artists and architects have coveted for centuries.
In the case of this bead, the artisan has applied this principle to
create a sense of visual equilibrium and allure. The eye isn't just an
eye; it's a focal point, a magnetic locus drawing the viewer's
attention. And its strategic placement according to the golden ratio
heightens its visual impact, making the bead not just an object of
beauty, but also a testament to the mathematical precision and the deep
understanding of aesthetic principles of its creator.
Such careful placement is not a mere coincidence. It's a testament to
the skill, ingenuity, and aesthetic sensibility of the ancient artisans
who crafted these beads. These artisans, it seems, had an intuitive
understanding of the principles of design that we today recognize and
study formally. This fusion of artistry, aesthetics, and mathematics is
part of what makes these ancient beads so remarkable and captivating.
Not for sale
FAB
3 - 42.5
* 14 mm - Aprox. age: 2000 years
An exceptional ancient
bead, as a general rule, should ideally exhibit a striking
contrast in both its lines and colors. The inclusion of a
variety of distinct, naturally occurring colors can
significantly enhance a bead's 'remarkability' score. This is
particularly true in the case of agate beads, where the
interplay of contrasting hues often brings out the bead's
inherent beauty.
However, the two beads showcased above and below, FAB 3 &
FAB 4, diverge from this standard, demonstrating that the allure
of a bead is not solely reliant on high contrast and vibrant
colors. Instead, these pieces possess a subtler charm. Their
muted tones and less pronounced motifs do not shout for
attention, yet they possess an undeniable allure. They are not
intended to dazzle the casual observer but to engage in a more
intimate communication with their wearer.
These less ostentatious beads, in their quiet elegance, offer a
different form of engagement. They whisper rather than shout,
inviting a more introspective appreciation. In their understated
design and muted color palette, they project a serene,
meditative quality. They beckon the wearer to look closer, to
engage more deeply, and to appreciate the nuances of their
design and craftsmanship. In this sense, such beads offer a more
personal, introspective experience, an invitation to a quieter,
more contemplative appreciation of their beauty and history.
Shiva's 'lingam' - phallus
Shakti's 'yoni' - vagina
Spherical Symphony of Shiva-Shakti
Not for sale
FAB 4
- 26
* 13 mm - Aprox.
age: 2000 years
The Shiva-Shakti bead
The bead pictured above and the assortment to the lower left (FAB
5) bear strikingly similar patterns, a fact that is far from
mere coincidence. According to two of the most knowledgeable and
insightful bead experts I've ever had the pleasure of engaging
with - Malik Hakila and Sanatan Khavadya - these designs
represent the Shiva-Shakti motif. (I am here only
referring to them as experts in the subject of Indian beads.)
The oval circle within the design signifies the Yoni,
symbolizing the female genital opening, while the near nail-like
protrusion embodies the phallus of Shiva. These two elements,
when combined, encapsulate the cosmic union of opposites, a
fundamental principle that permeates every level of existence,
from the smallest atom to the vast expanse of galaxies.
This force is regarded as sexual, but not in the typical,
concrete sense of the term. Instead, it is sexual in its most
abstract form, a representation of the intertwining of
dualities. It is an allegory of the powerful union between the
masculine and the feminine, the active and the passive, the
creative and the receptive. Through this lens, each bead becomes
more than a simple adornment. They evolve into a tangible
representation of profound philosophical and spiritual concepts,
encapsulating the dynamic interplay of forces that govern the
universe.
Second coming
of Shiva-Shakti
FAB 5
- Left bead 18 * 8 mm - Aprox.
age: 2000 + years
The Shiva-Shakti motif is a profound symbol that has appeared in
various forms of art, including the intricate designs of ancient
beads. Rooted deeply in Hindu philosophy, this motif is an
embodiment of the divine cosmic dance of duality and unity,
creation and dissolution, masculine and feminine.
Shiva and Shakti are considered two facets of the same reality
in Hindu philosophy. Shiva, often symbolized by a phallus or
'lingam', represents the cosmic masculine principle, the
formless, the pure consciousness, and the unchanging aspect of
the universe. On the other hand, Shakti, symbolized by the
'yoni', represents the cosmic feminine principle, the
energizing, active, and dynamic aspect of the universe.
Timeless
Tapestry of Shiva-Shakti
According to the same beads experts as mentioned above,
this bead also
displays the same Shiva symbol.
Not for sale
FAB 6 - (IV-TL 7) -
24* 10 mm - Aprox. age: 2500 years
In the context of ancient beads, the Shiva-Shakti motif is
usually depicted as an interplay of these symbols. The oval or circular
element, representing the yoni, may encapsulate or intertwine with a
phallic or linear element, symbolizing the lingam. This intricate design
serves as a constant reminder of the interdependent and complementary
nature of the masculine and feminine energies. It is also a testament to
the ancient artisan's understanding and reverence for these cosmic
principles.
These beads, often worn as amulets or incorporated into jewelry,
served not only as decorative elements but also as spiritual
tools. They were designed to remind the wearer of the
fundamental unity underlying apparent dualities, the
interconnectedness of all existence, and the cyclical nature of
life and the universe.
The Shiva-Shakti motif thus transforms each bead into a
microcosm of the universe, representing profound philosophical
and spiritual truths. To hold such a bead is to hold a piece of
ancient wisdom, a tangible connection to the timeless dance of
energies that continue to shape and sustain the universe.
We can learn a lot from the ancient Indian wisdom!
The one out of a million bead
Gemstone of
Generations
The
bead showcased above is truly a one-off treasure, a unique find in my
vast journey through ancient bead varieties. This mesmerizing
multicolored eye agate bead stands out, not just for its distinct
design, but also for its extraordinary translucent quality that imparts
a ruby-like glow, accentuated by the bead's very form. It's a rare gem
that speaks volumes about the sophistication of ancient bead
craftsmanship.
This extraordinary bead was discovered in Bodh Gaya, an incredibly
significant location steeped in spiritual and historical resonance.
Known as the place where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and
became the Buddha, Bodh Gaya is a nexus of culture and spirituality. The
bead's provenance adds an additional layer of intrigue and depth to its
appeal.
Furthermore, this bead likely hails from the Mauryan period, an era of
profound cultural and political significance in the Indian subcontinent.
The Mauryan Empire, from approximately 4th to 2nd century BCE, was one
of the most extensive empires in South Asian history and was marked by
advancements in art, culture, and philosophy. This connection situates
the bead within a broader historical context, linking it to a time of
profound transformation and growth.
In essence, the bead is not just an artifact but a tangible piece of
history, a silent testament to the skilled craftsmanship and aesthetic
sensibility of its creators. Each facet of its design, each swirl of
color, and each glimmer of its ancient shine invites us to journey back
in time, to marvel at the richness and complexity of the world from
which it emerged.
Note
the outstanding Mauryan polishing technique.
Not for sale
FAB 8 - 34 * 9 mm -
Aprox. age: 2000+ years
SUBLIME INDUS BEADS Each bead within my Indus
collection, regardless of its period, condition, or perceived flaw,
holds a remarkable value in my eyes. Each one is a testament to a bygone
era, a whisper of an ancient civilization that continues to echo through
time. Displayed here, however, are some that stand out even within this
remarkable assortment—beads that are particularly striking in their
aesthetic, historical, or cultural significance.
The craftsmanship exhibited in Indus beads is awe-inspiring, surpassing
almost all other historical periods. Perhaps the only exception might be
the Mauryan period, which also showcases an incredible degree of skill
and sophistication. One of the most distinctive features of Indus beads
is their meticulously drilled holes—large, perfectly circular, and
smooth. The effort and patience required to create such precision work
without the aid of modern tools is truly astounding.
The Resurrection Circles of Continuity
The
soft patina gracing this Indus bead is an extraordinary sight. It
suggests a unique journey for the bead, one that intertwines the natural
processes of time with human use and reverence. Most likely, the bead
underwent calcification during a burial process. This process would have
imbued it with an almost otherworldly glow, a testament to its journey
through time and the earth itself.
However, the bead's story doesn't end there. Its smooth surface
indicates that it was later excavated and worn for several generations.
This prolonged usage would have polished the calcified surface, creating
the uniquely smooth patina we see today. This combination of natural
calcification and human usage is highly uncommon, making this bead a
rare treasure.
The presence of usage patina on a calcified bead is a testament to the
bead's enduring appeal and cultural significance. Despite its journey
through time and the transformations it underwent, it was recognized for
its beauty and value when it was unearthed. It was then reintegrated
into the cycle of human use, adding yet another layer to its rich
history.
Such beads are not merely artifacts; they are witnesses to the flow of
time, bearers of untold stories, and symbols of the enduring human
affinity for beauty and meaning. Every scratch, every patina, every
marking adds to their character and deepens the narrative they hold. In
their silent way, they communicate the interconnectedness of human and
natural histories, reminding us of our place in the grand tapestry of
time.
Not for sale
FAB
9 - 34,5 * 9,5 mm -
Aprox. age: 5.000 years
Jaspagate Indus
Beads The selection of materials in Indus bead-making is indeed an
eloquent testament to the extraordinary dedication and
meticulous craftsmanship of these ancient artisans. They didn't
just settle for what was ordinary or readily accessible. They
sought the exceptional, the unique, the extraordinary. This
pursuit often necessitated arduous journeys, traversing
challenging terrains to acquire these rare materials. These
materials varied from uncommon gemstones to distinct minerals,
each bringing a unique character to the beads and enhancing
their symbolic and aesthetic allure.
These beads are not just beautiful artifacts; they are a window
into an ancient culture's tireless quest for beauty,
distinction, and significance. They demonstrate how the Indus
people went beyond the ordinary, sought the extraordinary, and
incorporated it into their art, lending their creations a
timeless appeal that continues to captivate us thousands of
years later.
Geode Glory in Red
As we
venture into this collection of my absolute favorite beads, we can
witness firsthand the lengths to which the Indus people went in search
of rare bead materials. The bead featured above is a prime example of
this quest for uniqueness. It is crafted from agate, a material already
valued for its beauty and durability, but this bead goes a step further.
It contain jasper inclusions, a rare feature that adds depth and
complexity to the bead's appearance.
Not for sale
FAB 10 -
37,5 * 10,5 mm -
Aprox. age: 4.500 years
The Indus people's
investment in their bead craft suggests a society where artistry
and aesthetics were deeply valued. Each bead serves not only as
an artifact of their technical skill but also as a window into
their values, their relationships with their environment, and
their perception of beauty. In essence, these Indus beads are
not just remarkable objects in and of themselves; they are
remarkable for the stories they tell and the worlds they invite
us to imagine.
Earth's Echo in Quantum
Quill
Such
inclusions of jasper are an uncommon occurrence, making this bead a rare
and fascinating find. The striking colors that emerge from this hybrid
stone material qualify the bead above for a place in my top-10 list.
This unique blend of materials is referred to as "jaspagate", a term
that encapsulates the exceptional nature of these beads.
Not
for sale
FAB
11
- 33 * 11 mm
Aprox. age: 4.500 years
Primordial Pulsar
Once
again, we are presented with a fascinating collaboration between jasper
and agate, two distinct materials that come together to form an
exquisite piece of art. This time, the natural patterning of the
materials manifests in more zigzag-like lines, creating a dynamic and
visually captivating bead.
The interplay between these two materials is akin to an organic
painting, with the individual characteristics of both jasper and agate
complementing each other beautifully. Agate, with its inherent
durability and translucence, forms a perfect canvas for the vibrant and
varied hues of jasper. The result is a bead that carries an intricate,
labyrinth-like pattern, composed of zigzag lines that seem to dance
across the surface of the bead.
This unique pattern showcases the unpredictable beauty of nature and the
exceptional skill of the artisan who shaped and polished this bead to
perfection. The zigzag lines create an illusion of movement, giving the
bead a dynamic and lively appearance. Each turn and twist of the pattern
tells a story of the earth's natural processes, captured forever within
the confines of this small, exquisite bead.
FAB
12
- 38 * 13 mm -
Aprox. age: 4.500 years
What is particularly remarkable is that these patterns are not
the product of human design, but the result of geological
processes that have taken place over millions of years. The
artisan's role was to recognize the inherent beauty in these
natural formations and to enhance them through careful crafting
and polishing. It's a testament to the deep connection between
the Indus people and the natural world around them, reflected in
their ability to find beauty in the most unassuming of places.
This particular bead, with its zigzag jasper and agate patterns,
is a true celebration of that connection. It is not just a
beautiful piece of jewelry, but a small, tangible piece of our
earth's vast and colorful history. Earth itself is a great
artist.
Spectral
Spirals on a Cosmic Canvas
An
ancient jaspagate bead that features softer white agate circles
surrounding jasper inclusions is truly a marvel to behold. This bead
encapsulates the beautiful alliance between the opaque, earthy tones of
jasper and the translucence of milky white agate.
These concentric circles of white agate, gently encasing the striking
jasper inclusions, create a compelling contrast and depth that is
captivating to the viewer. Each ring of agate represents a distinct
period in the bead's formation, almost like the growth rings of a tree,
telling the story of the stone's geological journey over centuries, if
not millennia.
The jasper inclusions, often in rich hues of red, yellow, or brown, add
an additional layer of intrigue. Like islands in a sea of agate, they
stand as testament to the intriguing natural processes that result in
such captivating patterns.
This ancient jaspagate bead is not just an artifact, it's a tangible
testament to the relentless march of time and the mesmerizing beauty
that can result from nature's slow, patient artistry.
FAB
13
- 33 * 13 mm -
Aprox. age: 4.500 years
Tubular Glory
This slender
tubular bead, crafted during the Indus era, showcases a large hole that
is discernible through its translucent stone material. This feature
magnifies the bead's inner radiance, creating a captivating glow that
seems to emanate from within. The bead's structure beautifully marries
form and function, resulting in a luminous piece of ancient artistry.
FAB
14
- 28 * 5/5,5 mm -
Aprox. age: 4.500 years
The Crystal Eye
Luminary's Lens
FAB
15
- 35 * 10/11 mm
- Aprox. age: 4.500 years
Symbolic representations of eyes, especially those crafted from
crystalline formations, are a common theme found in ancient
beads. FAB 15, 16 and 17 are good examples of this phenomenon. These 'eye beads' are not just a product of human
craftsmanship but are also a testament to the awe-inspiring
processes of nature.
Crystal formations used for crafting these eye motifs are
typically the result of centuries, if not millennia, of
geological processes. Over time, minerals dissolved in water
seep into the rocks, and as the water evaporates, these minerals
crystalize, often forming stunning, intricate patterns. When
these natural designs resemble the shape of an eye, they hold
particular appeal for bead makers. It is the union of natural
processes and human artistry that makes these eye beads truly
remarkable.
The eye motif itself holds significant symbolic value across
many cultures. Eyes are universally associated with vision,
perception, and knowledge. In many ancient societies, eye beads
were considered to be protective talismans, warding off evil
spirits and bad luck. These amulets were believed to 'watch
over' the wearer, protecting them from harm.
The use of crystal in crafting these symbols adds another layer
of symbolic meaning. Crystals are often associated with clarity,
focus, and transformation. They are believed to possess healing
properties and are used in various spiritual and meditation
practices. Therefore, an eye bead made from crystal formations
could symbolically represent clear vision or spiritual insight.
In summary, the prevalence of eye motifs crafted from crystal
formations in ancient beadwork reflects both the natural beauty
of geological processes and the profound symbolic significance
that ancient cultures attached to these designs. These beads
serve as a tangible link between the physical and spiritual
realms, embodying the interconnectedness of nature, art, and
symbolism.
Prophetic
Pupil
FAB
16
- 29,5 * 9 mm -
Aprox. age: 4.500 years
Visionary
Vortex
FAB
17
- 44 * 19/19,5 mm -Aprox. age: 4.500 years
Retina of Realms
FAB 18
- 26 * 8 mm -
Aprox. age: 3.500 years
ULO - Unidentified Living Object
FAB 19
-39 * 9,5 mm -
Aprox. age: 3.500 years
DIVINE GEOMETRIC IN SYMMETRY
In agate, the longing for Virtue is expressed in symmetry. As
above, so below. The divine harmony is expressed on earth in the
perfect symmetric bead. The eye, as I prefer to understand these
obviously intended motifs, is here the portal of consciousness.
Early Indus Valley bead
Ocular Oracle
FAB 20 - 33 * 9 mm - Aprox. age: 4.000
Early Indus Valley bead
Before
Ancient times
FAB
22
- 33 * 24,5 * 8 mm - Aprox. age: 5.000 years
Mystic
Mirror
FAB
23
- 35,5 * 20 * 8 mm - Aprox. age: 5.000 years
The
Gentle Gigant
FAB
24
- 48 * 42 * 10 mm - Aprox. age: 5.000 years
Visionary Vein
FAB
25
- 29 * 26 * 8 mm - Aprox. age: 5.000 years
Gyre of
Genesis
FAB
26
- 23 * 15 * 7 mm - Aprox. age: 5.000 years
Curl of
Cosmos
FAB
27
- 34 * 11,5 mm - Aprox. age: 4.500 years
Agate: The harbinger of virtue and the canvas of imagination
Take a closer look at the wonderful ancient agate bead displayed
above. From my personal observations and experience, it is
apparent that the practice of engraving and discerning symbolic
motifs primarily took root in the realm of agate bead-making.
The very nature of agate, with its uniform and harmonious
geometric patterns, provides an ideal canvas for the creation
and perception of eyes and other symbols, the meanings of which
have largely faded into the obscurity of time.
This characteristic of agate is particularly noticeable in
specimens of volcanic origin. Their abundant circular formations
make them exceptional mediums for symbolic representation. In
this context, an ancient agate bead can be likened to a
Rorschach inkblot test. It becomes an arena for the projection
of human imagination, mirroring back the viewer's thoughts,
ideas, and perhaps even their subconscious reflections.
Meanwhile, other materials like jasper, although beautiful and
valuable in their own right, do not typically exhibit the same
level of uniformity and symmetry found in agate. This makes
agate uniquely suited to the artisan's hand and the observer's
eye, transforming each bead into a captivating fusion of natural
beauty and human creativity.
In this sense, agate doesn't merely exist as a precious stone
used in bead-making. Instead, it transcends its physical form to
become a mirror of human consciousness, a silent narrator of
forgotten stories, and, in its own unique way, a harbinger of
virtue.
Maybe that is why the Chinese love agate beads and still by far
ignore beads made in jasper.
Beautiful Fatboy
FAB
28
- 40 * 18 mm - Aprox. age: 5.000 years
Window to Wisdom
FAB 29 - 17 * 10 mm - Aprox. age: 5.000 years
Late Indus valley bead
Layers of Legacy
FAB
30 - 21 * 9 mm - Aprox. age: 4.500 years
There are at least four different colors in this subtle colored banded agate
late Indus valley bead.
Sight
of the Spirit
What a beautiful and highly unusual color blend in this small
bead! I would go so far as to say that I have never seen an
ancient bead with such colors. It displays a symmetrical yet
swirling motif in agate. I usually don't sell my favorite beads.
However, rules get bent when I encounter a person who really
understands and appreciates a rare bead.
RB 31 - 17 * 9 mm - Aprox. age: 3.500 years
- SOLD
The Miracle
Maker
The
banding of multiple colors in jasper is a rare and extraordinary sight,
and the bead displayed here is a stellar exemplar of this phenomenon.
This remarkable late Indus bead boasts an impressive palette of at least
six distinct colors, a testament to nature's whimsical artistry and the
bead maker's discerning eye.
A noteworthy feature of this bead is the presence of unique red cinnabar
'blood spots' - a rarity that adds an extra layer of intrigue to this
already exceptional artifact. The rich crimson spots provide a dramatic
contrast to the other hues, making the bead all the more visually
captivating.
However, it's not just the vibrant colors and patterns that make this
bead extraordinary. The impeccably drilled holes reflect the high level
of skill and patience of the ancient craftsmen. Despite working with
rudimentary copper tools, they managed to create these perfect orifices,
a feat that leaves us questioning and marveling at their mastery.
This striking multicolored bead, with its vivid spectrum and intricate
craftsmanship, ranks among my most cherished favorites. Its unique
beauty and historical significance make it a prized possession that I
have chosen to keep, thus it is not available for sale.
Not for sale
FAB 32 - 17 * 11 mm
- Aprox. age: 3.500 years
Eternal Echo of Shiva-Shakti
FAB 33 -
38 * 13 mm - Aprox. age: 4.000 years
Rechargeable Talisman
The
bead you see here is a dazzling testament to the ingenuity of the late
Indus Valley civilization - a bead unlike any other I've encountered,
boasting spiraled bands of radiant red and mesmerizing crystal quartz.
It's a piece that stops you in your tracks, inviting you to marvel at
the intricate interplay of color and form.
This bead is a testament to the unmatched craftsmanship of the late
Indus period. Its exquisite spiral design, a rarity in the bead world,
is a visual symphony of winding red bands entwined with swirls of
crystal quartz. This combination of colors, so elegantly distributed,
creates a striking aesthetic spectacle that is both alluring and
hypnotic. This pairing is not only visually stunning but also
symbolically potent. The red spiral could be seen as a representation of
life's energy, while the crystal quartz, often associated with clarity
and purification, might symbolize spiritual ascension.
The creation of such a bead would have required immense skill and
patience. The bead-maker would have needed to carefully select the raw
materials, painstakingly shape the bead, and deftly control the heat to
achieve the spiraled banding effect.
Not for sale
FAB 34 - 20 * 9 mm - Aprox. age: 3.500 years
Rings of Resilience
FAB 35 -19 *
10 mm
- Aprox. age: 3.500 years
Late Indus Valley bead.
A unique agate bead with 6-colored
spiral
motif and crystalline bands
One of the simple
reasons behind
the creation of these
perfect
and
beautiful holes is time:
Ample of time just
to sit with one bead.
Harmonies of the Hues
FAB 36 - Aprox. age: 3.500 years
A wonderful three colored bead with
a golden angel motif. It has stunning artistic banding and color tones.
Whorl
of Wisdom
FAB 37 - 18 * 10 mm
- Aprox. age: 3.500 years
A multi colored late Indus bead with
a beautiful golden angle motif.
The
Spearhead
FAB 38 - 25,5 * 12,5 mm - Aprox. age: 4.000 years
Early Indus Valley bead
Timeless Twinkle
FAB 39
- 29,5 * 12 mm - Aprox. age: 4.000 years
Early Indus Valley bead
Twisted Tale
FAB 40 - 25 *17 *6,5 mm - Aprox. age: 4.000 years
Tiers of Timelessness
FAB 41 - 26,5 * 12 mm - Aprox. age: 4.000 years
*
Gaze of the
Ancients
FAB 42 - 26 * 8 mm - Aprox. age: 4.500 years
Late Indus Valley bead
*
Insightful Inlay
FAB 43 - (EIV 44) - 45 * 14 mm
- Aprox. age: 4.000 years
Early Indus Valley bead
*
Glimpse of the
Gods
Not for sale
FAB 44 -
47 *
10,5
mm - Aprox. age: 3.700 years
A beautiful large
holed survivor in agate with an awesome crystal formation.
This ancient beauty has furthermore been colored by the earth it
has slept in. Early Indus Valley
*
Infinite Cascade
FAB 45
- 53 * 14 mm - Aprox. age: 3.700 years
Early Indus Valley bead
*
Celestial Cornea
FAB 46 - 45 * 12 mm - Aprox. age: 3.700 years
Early Indus Valley bead with a crystalline eye
*
Time's Tapestry
FAB 47 - 42 * 10 mm - Aprox. age: 3.700 years
Early Indus Valley bead
*
Spectral Seer
FAB 48 - 39 * 10 mm - Aprox. age: 3.700 years
Early Indus Valley bead
*
Insightful
Infinity
FAB 49 - 33 * 10 mm - Aprox. age: 3.700 years
Early Indus Valley bead
* Ancient Whisper
FAB 50 - 30,5 * 7 mm - Aprox. age: 3.700 years
Early Indus Valley bead
* Sight of the Sages
FAB 51
- 29 * 6
mm - Aprox. age: 3.700 years
In this early Indus Valley bead the volume of
the hole exceeds the volume of the stone material!
* Peering Past
FAB 52 - 33,5 * 8,5 mm - Aprox. age: 3.700 years
Early Indus Valley bead
* The Flat Earther
FAB 53 -
40,5 * 39 * 10,5 mm - Aprox. age: 5.500 years
Early Indus Valley bead
Galactic Stone Bone
FAB 55 -
35 * 35 * 29 mm - Aprox. age: 6.000 years
A strange bead I must say. It has a very unusual shape and in
the hand it almost feels organic.
Early Indus Valley bead
* All-Seeing
Ancestral Amulet
FAB 56 - 34,5 *
9
mm - Aprox. age: 3.700 years
The calcification in the old Indus fellow has turned him into
something even more beautiful than he was in his youth.
Early Indus Valley bead
* Swirl of Secrets
FAB 57
- 33,5 * 9,5 mm - Aprox. age: 5.500 years
Early Indus Valley bead
Coil of Creation
FAB 58
- 25 * 10 mm - Aprox. age: 3.500 years
*
Oracle's Optic
FAB 59
- 28 * 11,5 mm - Aprox. age: 3.000 years
* Look of Lore
FAB 60
- 32 * 10 mm - Aprox. age: 3.500 years
Early Indus Valley bead
*
Survival of the Softest
Sandstone beads,
with their unique texture and relative softness on the Mohs scale, play
an unmissable role in the chronicle of bead-making. In the epochs
predating the Indus civilization, the techniques for working with
tougher materials like agate and jasper were not yet fully matured.
However, the ease of crafting sandstone beads shouldn't obscure the
artistic sophistication involved - such craftsmanship demanded a subtle
hand and meticulous attention to the minutest details.
The sandstone bead showcased here is an extraordinary specimen -
perfectly preserved, it exhibits delicate, naturally formed bands,
evoking the patterns seen in agate. Originating from an era preceding
the Indus Valley civilization, this bead carries an aura of deep
historical significance. It stands as a testament to the longevity of
sandstone beads which, despite their inherent fragility, are among the
oldest known bead types, their origin reaching back to periods even
before the rise of the illustrious Indus civilization.
The question of how such a fragile object, hewn from relatively soft
sandstone, could withstand the test of millennia is fascinating. I
attribute its survival to a serendipitous alignment of conditions and
chance. The enduring presence of this bead underscores the
unpredictability and inspiring resilience of these ancient artifacts. Or
maybe there were just so many of them that a few had the luck to
survive.
Not for sale
FAB61
-
30 * 7,5 mm -
Sandstone bead - Aprox. age: 5.500
years
FAB 62
FAB 63
Spectrum of Sediment
FAB 64 - 32 * 9
mm - Sandstone - Aprox. age: 5.000 years
* Bands of Being
FAB 65
- 39 * 8,5 mm - Green Jasper with Bands - Aprox. age: 4.000 years
*
Eye of Mordor
Here we have yet
another exceptional specimen - a multicolored agate bead that captivates
the observer with its fascinating visual complexity. The focal point of
this piece is an infinitely dark, dangerous looking eye, a hauntingly
beautiful motif that pulls you into its mysterious depth. This
mesmerizing symbol, often interpreted as a protective emblem in many
ancient cultures, is artfully placed within the confines of a fiery,
sharp, and golden rhombic pattern.
This bead's color palette is a visual feast, a medley of hues ranging
from intense, almost smoky blacks, through to fiery reds and golden
yellows. These colors, vibrant yet harmonious, work together to enhance
the striking geometry of the rhombic pattern. It's a design that teems
with energy, radiating outward from the dark eye at its center, creating
an irresistible visual tension.
FAB 66 - 26 * 16 mm - Aprox. age: 3.000 years
*
Gaze of the Guardian
FAB 67 - 23 * 16 mm - Aprox. age: 3.000 years
Note the
strong contrasts in this
dramatic
two
eyed
sulemani
bead in soft blue, strong white and black
colors. the two eyes consists of layers of concentric circles
made of thin black lines
* Watcher of Worlds
FAB 68 - 21,5 * 17 * 14,5 mm - Aprox. age: 3.000 years
Here we have a super sharp all seeing
eye bead in a variety of soft autumn colors. I dare to say that
these beads rivals the best contemporary art.
*
Spectral Sphere
FAB 69 - 24,5 * 11 mm - Aprox. age: 3.000 years
The patina and cracks on this eye-bead is unique in the way it supports and
amplifies the natural lines in the original stone. It is almost
as if the bead is looking at you!
*
Ancient Iris of the
Eagle
FAB 70 - 29 mm - Aprox. age: 1.500 years
* Triangular Circles
FAB 71 - 20 mm - Aprox. age: 4.000 years
* Ribbons of Reality
FAB - 31 * 11 mm - Aprox. age: 3.000 years
A wonderful
ancient translucent natural banded Chung DZI bead with a unique 'patina'.
It
displays dual, organic symmetrical swirling stripes. The bead has a translucent
fiery orange color,
which gives a marvellous contrast to the natural white
stripes. This color has been made stronger by ancient heat
treatment.
* Strata of Time
FAB 72 -
30 * 10 mm
- Aprox. age: 3.000 years
* Sage's Sight
FAB 73 - 23,5 * 10,5 mm - Aprox. age: 2.500 years
* All-Seeing
Agate
FAB 74 - 19 * 10 mm - Aprox. age: 3.000 years
* Timeless Twinkle
FAB 75 - 18 * 12,5 * 5,5 mm - Aprox. age: 4.000 years
* Echoes of Eons
FAB
76 - 19 * 8,5 mm - Aprox. age: 3.500 years
Late Indus Valley bead
* Spin of the
Sages
FAB 77 - 20 * 14 * 10 mm - Aprox. age: 3.500 years
* Eyes of
Essence
FAB 78 - 22 * 12,5 * 8,5 mm - Aprox. age: 3.500 years
*
The Story Telling Stone
FAB 79 - 25 * 20 * 7 mm - Aprox. age: 3.500 years
*
Jewels of
Journeys
FAB 80 - Top left bead: 16 * 14 * 5 mm - Aprox. age: 3.500 years
*
Visionary Vortex
FAB 81 - SANAT 1 - 47 * 13
mm - Aprox. age: 4.500 years
The largest Yoni bead I have ever seen!
This super rare Indus bead is made out of a material resembling amazonite.