Antique Tibetan large carved carnelian melon bead with sterling silver repoussé caps. 37x25mm B4-car361

Antique Tibetan carved carnelian melon bead with repoussé sterling silver caps. Natural old weathered carnelian bead set more recently in sterling silver caps by artisans in Nepal. This is an old bead that shows a bit of wear which greatly adds to its character. A wonderful focal bead. 37x25mm. 33 grams

This bead was acquired from a collector who purchased it 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.