Old Tibetan Turquoise bead. Sterling silver caps with coral beads. 33x22mm b4-tur514

Vintage Tibet repousse sterling silver capped turquoise bead.  There are 7 bezel set coral stones at each end.  33x22x16mm.  hole at opening of cap is 2.6mm but may be more narrow inside the stone bead.  This bead was purchased in Nepal in the 1970s but by it appearance looks to be older.  We have one bead only

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.