Dimension: 17x10mm

Introduction:
Encounter the sacred and the skilled with this banded agate cross bead from the Byzantine Period, dating back to the 4th-7th century AD. The cross shape, revered in Byzantine culture, combined with the natural striations of the agate stone, reflects both the spiritual and the aesthetic values of the time.

Estimate: $580-$850
The intricate design and historical context of this bead have elevated its worth in the current global market. Cross beads of such antiquity and craftsmanship, especially from the Byzantine Period, are rare finds, often commanding prices well above $600 in specialized retail settings.

Auction Market Analysis:
The market for Byzantine-era religious artifacts is particularly dynamic, with collectors and historians alike vying for unique pieces. This agate cross bead, with its clear historical lineage, offers a rare opportunity for investment and is likely to attract significant attention due to its unique form and period-specific craftsmanship.

Collector & Resale Insight:
Religious artifacts from early Christian times, particularly those from the Byzantine Period, have seen an appreciation in value by about 140% over the past decade. The unique nature of this cross bead suggests its potential for similar or greater value growth, making it a wise choice for collectors with an eye for historical and spiritual significance.

Provenance:
The bead comes from the respected collection of Arabic consignor Mohammed Al-Saud, initially procured at a heritage auction in Riyadh in 2012. A digital Certificate of Authenticity (COA) will accompany the bead, provided by the auction house, to guarantee its provenance.

Auctioneer's Comment:
We offer a seamless auction experience where winning lots are expertly handled. Our team takes care of packaging and global shipping via DHL from Asia. Please note that DHL's minimum shipping charge is $40 based on parcel size and weight. Combining multiple wins into a single shipment is a smart choice, given our large selection of nearly 1250 lots. Invoices are sent within 8 hours after the auction, excluding insurance fees. For added security, consider adding shipping insurance during checkout, as we cannot be held responsible for transit damage without it.

Thousand Planet Auction House
Important Notice: Antique Item Examination & Terms

1. Ownership: Thousand Planet Auction House acts as an intermediary and does not own any auction lots. All lots are property of pawnshops, estate companies, or consigned from various consignors.

2. "As Is" Sale: All lots are sold "as is" without warranties or guarantees, either express or implied. Descriptions are for guidance only and should not be considered comprehensive or definitive. We encourage bidders to perform their own inspections and research.

3. Auction Format: Our auction house employs the Timed Auction format without internet competing bids, and there are no reserve prices set. Each lot beckons with its unique starting price, reflecting our commitment to total transparency. Starts with a minimal opening price, which is typically lower than the actual market selling price. The estimated value range provided (min-max) for each auction lot reflects the approximate retail market value of the item.

4. Photo Inspection: Before bidding, carefully inspect the zoomed-in photos provided. These images aim to detail the item's condition, authenticity, and features, enabling bidders to judge the age themselves.

5. Clarifications: Seek clarity on any doubts about an item's age or authenticity before bidding. Our team is available to provide needed information.

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7. Avoid Misrepresentation: Claims asserting an item's age or authenticity without evidence are invalid. If you cannot discern age from detailed photos, making age-based claims from plain sight is unreasonable.

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10. Fairness & Transparency: We facilitate transparent transactions, working as a neutral third party. We organize auctions, provide detailed photos, and assist consignors with shipping. All items are sold following the "As Is" concept: what you see is what you receive. Bidders should be familiar with assessing an item's patina for age verification.

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12. Payment & Late Fees: Pay winning bids within 3 days of auction end. Delays may cancel your wins and impact future participation.

13. DHL Shipping: Minimum shipping cost starts at $40 regardless of size or destination. Combine multiple wins to save on shipping. Buyers bear any taxes or customs duties. There's no default insurance; request quotes based on parcel value.

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Certificate of Authenticity (COA) Terms
1. Basis: COAs are issued based on consignor information, not independent auctioneer verification.
2. No Warranty: The auctioneer provides no warranties about the COA's accuracy, validity, or completeness.
3. Limitation of Liability: The auctioneer isn't liable for any COA errors or omissions. Any damages arising from COA use fall outside our responsibility.
4. Indemnification: Bidders agree to shield the auctioneer from any claims related to the COA or item.
5. Governing Law: These terms are governed by laws of the auctioneer's jurisdiction, not the USA. Disputes will be settled in the auctioneer's local courts.

Acceptance: Bidding indicates agreement to all above terms and conditions across 19 sections