JS2194: Ancient Sumerian Bead Necklace

Ancient Sumeria, c. 3000-2000 BC. Marvelous necklace comprised of high quality ancient Sumerian beads. Beautiful black stone and white shell beads, re-strung on sturdy wire with silver clasp and findings. Measures 19" long.

The beads come from the private collection of Dr. Arlold R. Saslow, South Orange, New Jersey, acquired on the London art market in the 1980's. Originally strung on 40+ year old string, subsequently re-strung on much sturdier modern jewelry-wire and findings.

* Example shown here, the ones I have now have rare Sumerian red stone beads in them as well! Feel free to email me directly for photos.

The ancient Sumerians viewed jewelry as a sign of status and wealth... and at the heart of that jewelry were these extraordinary, tiny beads, each hand carved from shell or stone, and drilled through with pinpoint accuracy, far before the invention of modern tools. Each bead is a marvel of ancient engineering.