Octagonal Jade Bead Carved with Buddhist InvocationsSuggested Date: Qing DynastyBasic ArchiveDimensions: Length 6.8?cm (2.68?in), Width 1.7?cm (0.67?in); Weight 50?gCondition: Carved from a single piece of jade into an octagonal prism. No breaks, cracks or restorations. Natural brown?hued inclusions of varying depth spread across the facets and both terminals. Each of the eight facets bears clearly preserved incised Buddhist invocations. A pierced hole runs through the entire length. Retains its original woven cord and tassel. Edges show soft wear from age?old handling. Overall condition is good.Object DescriptionThis is an octagonal jade bead of the Qing Dynasty, a Buddhist?themed personal pendant. Shaped as an eight?sided prism with narrow raised rims at both ends, it features a central through?drilled aperture for suspension. Each facet is incised with regular?script invocations to various Buddhas, including *Namo Acala Tathagata*, *Namo Ratnasambhava Tathagata*, and *Namo Amitabha Tathagata*. Characters are neatly rendered in fluid shallow incised lines. The bead is presented with its original woven suspension cord and antique tassel, suitable for wear or as a central element in a composite jade pendant assemblage. Such prayer?inscribed jade beads were worn by devout lay followers in the Qing for recitation, blessing and warding off misfortune. Surviving examples complete with original cord and tassel are relatively uncommon, embodying popular Buddhist beliefs of the period.Jade Material and CraftsmanshipThe jade exhibits a smooth, translucent texture. Natural brown spots and vein?like patination developed on the surface and extremities through long?term burial and handling, with gradual color transition. The central perforation was achieved by core?drilling. Eight facets are evenly finished. All characters are executed in incised carving with distinct tool?mark beginnings and endings. As a traditional jade pendant form, this work merges jade?carving techniques with lay Buddhist devotional customs, serving as a representative example of secular Qing?dynasty Buddhist jade art.