An ancient relic from the 6th century AD, this faceted, fluted and drilled bead originated in Germany and was uncovered and identified by a team of archaeologists from the University of Turin in Africa.
Beads such as these were used by Venetian traders, primarily in the region of what is today Nigeria.
The translucent white Agate bead has a hexagonal barrel-shape profile and is drilled along its length.
This rather beautiful, luminous gem is both buying a testament to the ancient craftsmen who worked the hard stone to shape and a symbol of early commerce.
weight: 12.89 carats / 2.58 grams
shape: Fluted hexagonal barrel shape bead, drilled
dimensions: 18.80 x 10.92 x 9.60 mm
treatment: None
All images are of the gemstone on offer here and were taken by Gemgazer.
Product code: Antique fluted Agate Bead, Germany, 6th century AD. 12.89 buying carats / 2.58 grams.