Seals as Beads

Most seals are beads as seen on the above picture with at least one flat, engraved side.
It produces a mirror image after first being pressed into sealing wax or clay or inked and then put on paper.
The purpose was to signify the owner. The mere ownership of a seal indicated a high social position in society.
Seals were used up to the early 19th century.

 

18 * 18 mm
Indus Valley culture bull seals - before 1500 BC