Holy Land, Israel, Hebron, ca. 19th century CE. A gorgeous ensemble of 49 glass beads known as Hebron or Kano beads of the rare blue variety, all strung to gently graduate toward the center on a jute strand to be wearable. Boasting vibrant hues of turquoise, teal, cyan, aquamarine, navy, cerulean, azure, and teal, the elegant beads present with varying forms, such as barrel, spherical, cuboid, and discoid. Note the shimmering iridescence of some of the beads - sure to add a sparkle to any ensemble! Size (of necklace): 16.5" L (41.9 cm); Size (of largest bead): 1" L x 0.6" W (2.5 cm x 1.5 cm)

Hebron beads, like these examples, were made in the ancient Israeli city of Hebron from the 12th century up until 1880 by melting sand from neighboring villages and Dead Sea salt then winding the hot glass onto a mandrel, giving them their signature coarse and opaque appearance. They gained popularity as trade beads in the 18th and 19th century, during which they were heavily traded to nations in northeast Africa and became a staple currency by which to do business throughout the continent. Due to the influx of Hebron beads in Africa, particularly in Nigeria, some began to believe they originated in the region and thus named them Kano beads, after the nation's capital.

Provenance: private Westminster, Colorado, USA collection

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#163834

All beads have expected nicks, chips, and pitting throughout. Losses to a few beads. Otherwise, excellent and wearable with beautiful iridescence.