Object Description
A restrung Near Eastern necklace consisting of alternating carnelian and gold beads. The piece consists of spherical carnelian beads interspersed with long oblong gold beads, starting with smaller beads at the top which continue to increase in size. The necklace is enriched by a large central banded, agate bead, perhaps an amulet, incised with linear patterns, forming a grid like design. To the reverse, the bead is carved with straight lines intersecting each other, forming a diamond pattern within an enclosed incised rectangle. The bead is flanked by two long faceted carnelian beads, each demonstrating flecks of dark colour, adding further richness to the piece. The necklace is finished with a modern gold-plated, S-shaped clasp.
Half Length: 24cm
Date: Circa 2nd Millennium – 1st Millennium BC