This agate bead, featuring a series of concentric white and dark bands, is representative of the Bactrian culture, which thrived in what is today Afghanistan and surrounding areas during the 2nd to 1st millennium BCE. The fine layering and precision of the bands point to advanced stone-carving techniques of the era. Agate was valued for its beauty and supposed protective properties. The bold patterns were likely believed to ward off harm and signify status. Beads like this were not only personal adornments but also served as objects of trade, signifying wealth and connections across ancient trade routes.

Dimension:
0.47 x 0.39 inches (1.2 x 1 cm)

Provenance:
From an archaeological collection discovered in the Bactrian region, indicating the bead's historical significance and cultural heritage.

Blockchain Verification:
This artifact comes with an ERC-1155 token on the Ethereum network, which acts as a digital testament to its authenticity and provenance. To claim the token, collectors should provide their Ethereum wallet address starting with "0x". The token is optional and can be declined by the bidder.

1. Shipping Information:
All items are shipped directly from Asia to the United States using our expedited Express service. Shipping fees start at $30 per package, with final costs based on the total weight of the package according to FedEx's pricing system, including applicable surcharges. We recommend consolidating multiple items into one shipment for savings on shipping costs. Payment for the auctioned items must be made within 3 days of the auction's conclusion.
2. Provenance and Curated Authenticity:
Each lot in our collection is a testament to history, originating from premier estate auctions and meticulously curated by our experts at Thousand Planet Auction House. Our curation process emphasizes authenticity and historical value, and we stand as the first point of provenance post-acquisition. Our lots are offered primarily as significant art sculptures, with the acknowledgment of their historical backgrounds but without detailed aging specifics.
3. 'As Is' Sale with Artistic Emphasis:
Our items are sold in their present condition ('as is'), inclusive of any inherent faults, wear, or imperfections. Detailed descriptions and high-quality photographs are provided, yet we stress that sales are based on the artistic merit of the items. We refrain from making definitive claims about the ancient status or authenticity of these artifacts, respecting the complexities often associated with determining the precise age of such items.
4. Buyer's Due Diligence:
Prospective buyers are responsible for thoroughly reviewing all materials provided and engaging in independent research. External expertise is recommended when necessary. This due diligence is essential for a full understanding of each item's condition, artistic significance, and heritage. Thousand Planet Auction House shall not be held accountable for any inaccuracies or omissions in condition reports or descriptions.
5. Final Sale Policy:
Transactions with Thousand Planet Auction House are definitive. Returns or refunds for disputes over condition or authenticity are not entertained. We urge buyers to make informed decisions based on thorough evaluation and understanding prior to any purchase.