Old Tibetan agate melon bead, silver repoussé caps. 61.5mm x 28mm, Pkg 1. b4-car430

Vintage Nepal large carved carnelian agate melon bead with repoussé sterling silver caps. 61.5mm x 28mm.   This vintage or antique bead is set more recently in sterling silver caps by artisans in Nepal. This is a rare old bead that shows a bit of wear which greatly adds to its character. It makes a wonderful focal bead.  Sold individually.

These beads were acquired from a collector who purchased them in Nepal in the 1970s. The Tibetans sometimes applied gold or silver caps to the ends of valuable ancient stone beads such as etched carnelians, dZi and banded agates to conceal damage or reinforce fragile beads. This style has been copied in some vintage and contemporary silver-capped beads from Nepal.

These are beautiful hand carved melon stone beads that were made 50+ years ago and are much higher quality and have more character than the ones mass produced today.