Vintage Nepal large carved carnelian agate melon bead with repousse sterling silver caps. 55x26x21mm. b4-car374

Vintage  Nepal large carved banded carnelian agate elongated melon bead with repousse sterling silver caps. Actual age unknown. Natural old 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.  55x25x21mm. 40 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.