The white beads have been found in many places in the ancient world and are often called “Byzantine beads”. Dating them has been a matter of some controversy. Some believe they are an early type of glass from powdered raw silicate from crystal dating from 300-500 AD. Others believe they are very early Bohemian circa 1600 AD.
The large gold glass beads are “padre” beads. Padre beads were originally made in China and taken to America, Africa, and India by traders during the 18th and 19th centuries. The gold glass beads in this necklace are from Africa. The name ‘padre’ originates from the fact that Franciscan priests used these beads for trading with indigenous peoples and as an inducement to convert to Christianity.
Made with modern garnet and gold filled beads. The ear wires are also gold filled.
E16